The causes of anxiety in teenagers are several. The pressure to do well in school can be crippling, and the self-punishment they may inflict on themselves when they fail can be seriously damaging to their emotional wellbeing, as well as their ability to succeed in the future. Social situations are an equally big source of stress, and problems related to self-image, romantic life and social groups will affect them well into adulthood. There are many real causes of anxiety as well as the more trivial preoccupations that feature in a teenager’s life. It is extremely important to watch teenagers’ anxiety patterns to ensure that they do not become a neurosis that gets out of control. As a parent, the best thing you can do is give your teenager consistency in terms of discipline, and unconditional support in all their ventures.
All kinds of anxiety-related conditions can surface during the teenage years. Teenagers going through depression or anxiety are far more prone to forming a drug or alcohol habit, especially when temptation is so widely available. Teenagers who are suffering may be driven to extreme behaviours in attempting to express something; self-harming neuroses can take the form of cutting, anorexia or bulimia. At the worst extent, a serious mental health condition such as manic-depression, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder could result from the neglect of a teenager’s emotional wellness.
Though it can be very difficult, it is important to keep up an open relationship with your child as they pass through puberty and beyond. Be sure to let them know that you will not condemn them for any of their actions but will unconditionally lend support for any of the obstacles they come across. Though it can be hurtful, bear in mind that they may need to confide in someone at more of a distance than you are, so be sure that they have access to a good confidante, whether a friend, family member or even a professional counselor with whom they can talk through their problems in assured confidentiality.