.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Supporting Your Anxious Teen
Introduction
Parenting a teenager with anxiety can be challenging, but your support and understanding are essential for their well-being. This handout provides practical guidance and tips to help you navigate this journey together.
Understanding Teen Anxiety:
What is Anxiety? Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but it can develop into an anxiety disorder when it becomes excessive and uncontrollable.
Common Signs of Teen Anxiety:
- Excessive worrying
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Sleep disturbances
- Avoidance of certain situations or activities
- Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches
- Changes in eating habits
Ways to Support Your Anxious Teen:
Open Communication: Create a safe space where your teen can talk openly about their feelings without fear of judgment. Listen actively, show empathy, and validate their emotions.
Educate Yourself: Learn about anxiety disorders, their symptoms, and triggers. Stay informed about treatment options and coping strategies.
Seek Professional Help: If anxiety significantly impacts your teen's life, consult a mental health professional. Attend therapy sessions with your teen.
Encourage Healthy Habits: Promote regular exercise, nutritious meals, and sufficient sleep. Limit caffeine and sugar intake, which can worsen anxiety symptoms.
Teach Stress Management: Introduce relaxation techniques like deep breathing and mindfulness. Encourage hobbies and activities that reduce stress.
Establish Routine: Help your teen create a daily schedule that includes consistent sleep, meals, and study times. Avoid over-scheduling.
Set Realistic Expectations: Understand your teen's limitations and avoid pushing them too hard. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small.
Monitor Screen Time: Keep an eye on screen time, including social media. Encourage face-to-face interactions and outdoor activities.
Promote Self-Care: Teach your teen the importance of self-care and self-compassion. Help them identify and manage warning signs of anxiety.
Be a Role Model: Demonstrate healthy coping strategies for managing stress. Avoid using substances as a way to cope.
Stay Patient and Supportive: Understand that recovery takes time, and setbacks are normal. Reassure your teen of your unwavering support.
Involve the School: Discuss your teen's needs with teachers and counselors if anxiety affects their school performance. Explore accommodations and additional support.
Connect with Support Groups: Encourage your teen to join support groups for anxious adolescents. Consider joining a parent support group to connect with others facing similar challenges.
Conclusion:
- Excessive worrying
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Sleep disturbances
- Avoidance of certain situations or activities
- Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches
- Changes in eating habits
References:
Beck, J. S. (2021). Cognitive behavior therapy: Basics and beyond. The Guilford Press.
Bocci, G. S. (2019). The Social Media Workbook for Teens. New Harbinger Publications Inc.
Cooper, B. & Widdows, N. (2008). The Social Success Workbook for Teens. New Harbinger Publications Inc.
CROWDER, A. (2020). CBT Toolbox for Children & Adolescents: Over 200 worksheets & exercises for trauma, ADHD. PESI PUBLISHING.
Eich, J. (2015). Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Training with Adolescents. PESI.
Griff, K. (2020). Social Skills Curriculum for Teens. Trixie Lulah Publishing.
Gruzewski, K. (2020). Therapy Games for Teens. Callisto Publishing.
Hansen, S. A. (2013). The Executive Functioning Workbook for Teens. New Harbinger Publications Inc.
Linehan, M.M. (1993). Skills training manual for treating borderline personality disorder. Guilford Press: New York.
McLaughlin, L. (2002). Oppositional Defiant Disorder Activities. Rockridge Press.
Phifer, L.W. (2022). The CBT Toolbox for Young Adults. PESI.
Pratt, D.M. (2019). CBT Toolbox for Depressed, Anxious & Suicidal Children and Adolescents. PESI.
Shannon, J. (2022). The Shyness & Social Anxiety Workbook for Teens. New Harbinger Publications Inc.
Sokol, L., & Fox, M. G. (2020). The Comprehensive Clinician’s Guide to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. PESI.
Spensley, S. (2021). Positive Behavior Activities for Kids. Rockridge Press.
Stallard, P. (2019). Thinking good, feeling better: A cognitive behavioural therapy workbook for adolescents and young adults. Wiley.
Wilson, T. (2023). Therapy Games for Kids. Vox Publishing House.