Advice from our school counsellor.

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges facing adolescents today. For those aged 12 to 17, anxiety often shows up as persistent worry, nervousness, or fear about everyday situations. With school pressures, social dynamics, and the added influence of social media, it’s no surprise that many teens feel overwhelmed at times. Here’s what you need to know about anxiety in adolescence and how to support those affected.

Signs of Anxiety:

Anxiety may look different in every adolescent, but common signs include:

• Frequent headaches or stomach-aches without a clear cause

• Avoiding social situations or extracurricular activities they once enjoyed

• Difficulty focusing or falling behind in schoolwork or attendance.

• Irritability, restlessness, or constant worry

• Changes in sleeping or eating habits

Recognizing these signs is crucial, as untreated anxiety can impact not only academic performance but also self-esteem and relationships.

Why Anxiety Happens:

Anxiety often stems from a combination of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental influences. During adolescence, teens face unique stressors, like academic demands, social expectations, and constant digital connection, which can heighten feelings of anxiety. With so much change happening internally and externally, it’s natural for some stress to arise; however, ongoing or intense anxiety is a signal that additional support may be needed.

What Parents and Students Can Do:

1. Open Communication: Start by creating a safe space where teens feel comfortable expressing their worries without judgment. Let them know it’s okay to feel anxious and that they’re not alone.

2. Set Healthy Routines: Encouraging regular sleep, balanced nutrition, exercise, and time offline can greatly improve mental health. Small, consistent routines offer stability and can ease anxiety over time.

3. Practice Coping Skills: Techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and journaling can help teens manage anxious thoughts in the moment. Practicing these skills together can normalize them and show that anxiety management is a team effort.

4. Seek Professional Support: If anxiety becomes unmanageable, an external counsellor or therapist, or within school supports can provide valuable strategies tailored to the individual. Early intervention can prevent anxiety from interfering with daily life and help teens build lifelong coping skills.

Remember, Help is Available:

Whether it’s through our within school programs, family conversations, or external professional guidance, help is available for teens struggling with anxiety. Together, we can support our adolescents by recognizing their challenges and helping them navigate this critical time in their lives.