Understanding Teen Anxiety and Depression: A Guide for Parents
Written By Jena McMillan, CMHC Intern
As a counseling intern, I have had the privilege of working with teens who are navigating the sometimes-tricky waters of adolescence. It’s a time of change, growth, and, unfortunately, sometimes anxiety and depression. If you’re a parent feeling a bit overwhelmed or worried about your teen, you’re not alone. Let’s explore these issues together, drawing insights from Dr. Chinwe Williams’ insightful book, Seen, to discuss how you can support your child during this challenging time.
Spotting the Signs
Anxiety in Teens: Anxiety can look different for everyone, and it often goes beyond typical teenage worries. Here are some signs to watch for:
Excessive Worry: Does your teen seem overly anxious about school, friends, or the future? If their worries seem out of proportion, it’s worth paying attention to.
Physical Symptoms: Complaints about headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue might not just be physical ailments; they could be signs of anxiety.
Avoidance Behavior: If your teen is avoiding activities or situations they once enjoyed, it could be a signal that they’re struggling.
Irritability: Increased irritability or mood swings can sometimes indicate underlying anxiety.
Depression in Teens: Depression in adolescents can be subtle but impactful. Look out for these signs:
Persistent Sadness: If your teen seems sad or withdrawn for a while, that’s something to take seriously.
Loss of Interest: A sudden disinterest in things they used to love can be a significant red flag.
Changes in Sleep and Appetite: Noticeable shifts in how much they’re sleeping or eating might suggest something deeper going on.
Social Withdrawal: If your teen is pulling away from friends and family, it might be time to reach out.
What’s Behind Their Feelings?
Understanding what might be contributing to your teen’s anxiety or depression can help you provide the right support. Dr. Williams highlights that many teens today face unprecedented pressures—from academic expectations to the influence of social media. Here are a few common factors:
Academic Pressure: The stress of school can be intense. The pressure to excel can create a heavy burden, leading to anxiety.
Social Media Influence: Constant comparisons on social media can be tough on self-esteem and make them feel like they don’t measure up.
Life Transitions: Adolescence is a time of change. Shifts in friendships, family dynamics, and self-identity can feel both exciting and overwhelming.
Genetics: If there’s a history of mental health challenges in your family, your teen may be more susceptible to similar issues.
How You Can Support Your Teen
Open Communication: Create a safe space for your teen to express their feelings. Dr. Williams emphasizes the importance of being truly present for our children. Ask them about their day and listen without judgment. Sometimes just knowing you’re there to listen can make a world of difference.
Educate Yourself: The more you understand anxiety and depression, the better equipped you’ll be to support your teen. Consider reading books like Seen, which provides valuable insights into the emotional lives of young people. Exploring resources from reputable mental health organizations together can also be helpful.
Encourage Healthy Coping: Help your teen find activities that can ease anxiety and lift their mood—things like exercise, art, music, or spending time in nature can work wonders.
Limit Screen Time: Encourage breaks from social media and technology. Establishing some "device-free" time can help them engage more with friends and family in real life.
Seek Professional Help: If your teen seems to be struggling, it’s okay to reach out for professional support. Therapy can provide them with tools to cope and a safe space to talk about their feelings. It can also give you guidance on how to best support them.
Be Patient: Remember, recovery takes time. Celebrate the small victories and be there for your teen through the ups and downs.
Navigating anxiety and depression in teens can feel daunting, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Your support as a parent is incredibly important and can make a significant difference in your teen’s journey. Dr. Williams reminds us that every teen deserves to be seen and understood. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek help. Together, we can help our teens emerge from this challenging time stronger and more resilient. We have therapists waiting to support you and your teens!
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Jena McMillan is Clinical Mental Health Counselor Intern at Lyons Center LLC. If you would like to work with her, please click here and fill out the form. One of our staff will reach back out to you shortly.