Adolescents face a lot of stressors such as schoolwork, extracurricular activities, sports, and social pressure from their peers. It can be difficult to balance everything, especially when teens feel there’s an expectation to excel in all areas of their lives.

“In the pursuit of perfection, some teens may internalize unrealistic expectations, setting themselves up for a cycle of stress and anxiety. The fear of failure can become paralyzing, hindering their ability to navigate challenges and setbacks with resilience,” said Tiffanie Williams-Brooks, MA, LPC-S, Director of Children & Adolescent for The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD, “Teenagers especially experience heightened anxiety and what concerns us, is when they choose to cope with it, in an unhealthy way.”

Mental Health Crisis

It’s estimated that about one-third of adolescents experience an anxiety disorder at some point, whether that’s social anxiety, a specific phobia, or a panic disorder. In addition to academic pressure, social challenges and family issues, adolescents experience hormonal changes that can play a significant role in their overall mental health. 

The challenges can become overwhelming for teens and that may interfere with their academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. It might also lead to avoidance behaviors, where teens withdraw from certain situations or activities to cope with anxiety.  

In addition to changes in behavior, parents and loved ones may also notice that adolescents are experiencing anxiety based on physical symptoms such as restlessness, fatigue, muscle tension, and lack of sleep. 

“What concerns us is when we see teens turning to unhealthy and dangerous coping mechanisms. We see teens using drugs, drinking alcohol, and becoming self-destructive,” said Williams-Brooks, “In those situations, it’s crucial that we intervene with empathy and understanding. Rather than passing judgment, we must strive to create a supportive environment where teens feel comfortable expressing their struggles. By fostering open communication, we can help them explore healthier alternatives and build resilience. Our goal is to empower teens with the tools they need to navigate challenges, promoting mental and emotional well-being."

Offering Support

If you observe a teen experiencing anxiety, it’s important to listen and encourage him or her to express their feelings in a judgement-free space. Reducing the stigma around mental health is essential. Encourage open conversations about mental health to help teens feel more comfortable seeking support.

It’s also important to have regular check-ins. See how your teen is feeling. This strengthens your relationship, and it can also provide clues to any behaviors that seem out of place.  Additionally, monitoring a teen’s social media usage can also provide clues about their emotional well-being and potential stressors they might be facing.

“I encourage parents and loved ones to monitor their teen’s social media and phone usage. It’s a good way to stay in touch with what is happening in their lives, and it also encourages open communication,” said Williams-Brooks.

Plus, encouraging a healthy lifestyle is also good for mental health. Getting sufficient sleep, exercising, and eating heathy foods will improve an adolescent’s mental and physical well-being. 

For those needing extra support, The Harris Center is more than just a service; it's a vital support system for families in Harris County, always ready to lend a helping hand. Their 24/7 crisis hotline at 713-970-7000 is a lifeline for those in need of immediate assistance, providing comfort and guidance at any hour. The center's team of licensed professional counselors are not just experts in their field, but also compassionate individuals who genuinely care about your wellbeing. Many are also parents themselves. No matter your financial situation, The Harris Center is there for you, ensuring that everyone in Harris County has access to the support they need. In times of challenge, this commitment to care and community makes The Harris Center a dependable ally, offering a blend of professional expertise and heartfelt support.