It might sound a bit absurd to some parents when they hear their teens talk about feeling anxious or stressed. After all, how could they possibly understand stress when they haven’t faced adult responsibilities like juggling a job and running a household? It’s easy to dismiss their feelings, even chuckle at them, especially given that many have access to more comforts than we ever did. I’ll admit, I’ve been guilty of this myself.
However, I’ve come to realize that we must take our children’s concerns seriously. When they express feelings of anxiety over a test or a friendship, we need to listen. These feelings are legitimate and can sometimes lead to severe consequences, like depression or risky behavior. While we don’t want to smother them, we also want to equip them with the right tools to navigate their emotions. But how do we strike that balance without piling on more stress?
A recent piece in the New York Times delved into this growing epidemic among teens. It’s a serious issue; ignoring their often subtle cries for help can lead to them bottling up their feelings, which ultimately harms their well-being. Alarmingly, the rate of suicidal thoughts among teens has doubled in the last ten years. Yes, doubled. This is a wake-up call we can’t ignore.
As a parent to a teenage boy, I don’t have all the solutions, but I understand that his anxiety is very real—even on days when he pretends everything is fine. His body language speaks volumes, and as a mother, I want to provide support without hindering his independence. Recently, we decided to pursue cognitive behavioral therapy for him. His therapist has introduced him to techniques like deep breathing and the importance of regular meals for mood stability, which have made a noticeable difference. But there’s still work to do; it’s a journey.
A survey from the Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors highlights that anxiety has been on the rise among teens since 2009. Many kids experience anxiety, but its symptoms can easily be dismissed, as they’re often relatable to everyone.
Suniya Luthar, a psychology professor at Arizona State University, pointed out that anxiety affects children across varying economic backgrounds. Interestingly, affluent kids often feel immense pressure to be perfect, while those from economically challenged areas might exhibit aggressive behaviors.
What Drives This Anxiety?
Well, teens often feel like they’re never done—always needing to be better, take another class, or join one more extracurricular. Additionally, they share the same safety concerns as adults when in public spaces. Going to the movies or attending concerts can be sources of significant stress, especially given the unfortunate events we’ve witnessed in such places.
However, the biggest culprit of anxiety these days appears to be social media. It’s no surprise that platforms make kids question their self-worth, leading them to compare their lives to those of their peers. They’re constantly under the impression that they’re being judged.
As parents, we may think our teens’ stress levels don’t compare to our own, but we need to recalibrate our perspectives. The world they inhabit is vastly different from the one we knew. They carry worries about their futures, compounded by fears of public spaces, all while curating their lives for social media. It’s a recipe for anxiety.
Finding the Right Balance
The real question is, when do we step back and let our kids manage their own challenges? When do we help carry some of their burdens? And when do we seek external resources? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but trusting your instincts about your child is crucial.
Through my experience with my anxious teen, I’ve learned that help is available, and asking for it can be just as tough for teens as it is for adults. As parents, we must stay vigilant: watch for warning signs, maintain open dialogues, and seek help when necessary. Anxiety, stress, and depression manifest uniquely in every individual, so there’s a need for a tailored approach. There are resources out there, like those found at Progyny, that can provide guidance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we must acknowledge and address the rising anxiety levels in our teens. As they navigate their emotional landscapes, it’s vital that we support them, validate their feelings, and encourage them to seek help when needed. For more insights on emotional well-being, check out this other blog post and consider exploring fertility supplements if you’re interested in related topics.