Teens are under more pressure than ever. It’s easy to think that they have few worries or just don’t care about many of the things that are on your radar, but a deeper look will probably show you just how much teens are worried about. Teen stress can cause mental health conditions like anxiety and depression and even lead to self-harm.
Your teen doesn’t have to try and do it on their own, and we can help you support them. Family First Adolescent Services offers anxiety treatment for teens and other programming to help them find balance and a better way forward. Call 888.904.5947 to get the help they need.
The Youth Mental Health Crisis
Rates of self-harm, suicide, and emergency visits for mental health crises are spiking among young people in the U.S.—so much so that the surgeon general released an advisory highlighting the severity of the youth mental health crisis.1
Parents, educators, and other adults in the community often underestimate the stress that teens are facing. They may brush it off as just “drama” or assume that it’s a normal part of growing up. However, the reality is that today’s youth are living in a fast-paced and constantly connected world, which can take a toll on their mental health. Providing support and understanding to teens during this critical time is crucial in helping them navigate the challenges they face.
What Causes Teen Stress?
More young people dealing with mental health is not just a reflection of reducing stigma around talking about their challenges. Even though it’s more acceptable to talk about mental health, there are still many stressors that can contribute to a teen’s struggle.
Digital Tools and Social Media
Technology has made communication faster and more available than ever before. However, it also means that teens are constantly connected to their peers and the world around them. Social media can amplify pressures related to fitting in, comparing themselves to others, and feeling like they always need to be “on.”
Academic Pressure
The pressure to excel academically is a major source of stress for many teens. This can come from themselves, parents, or the education system. With college admissions becoming increasingly competitive, there is a constant push for teens to take advanced classes and maintain high grades.
Drug and Alcohol Use
While alcohol use may be declining among teens, the use of other substances, such as marijuana and vaping products, may be more acceptable. The risk of fentanyl and accidental overdoses also poses a significant threat to teens. Substance use can often be a coping mechanism for dealing with stress and other mental health issues.
Global and Social Crises
Many teens today are also facing the pressures of global issues, such as climate change and political unrest. Social and economic inequalities can also add to their stress levels, especially for marginalized communities.
How You Can Help
As a parent or caregiver, it’s important to recognize the signs of stress and take action to support your teen. Some steps you can take include:
- Communicate openly and listen without judgment
- Encourage healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise, journaling, or talking to a therapist
- Set realistic expectations and provide support rather than pressure for academic success
- Limit screen time and monitor social media use
- Educate yourself about mental health and seek professional help if needed
Remember that teens may not always express their stress in obvious ways. It’s important to be patient and understanding while also providing them with the tools and resources they need to manage their stress in a healthy way.
Reach Out to Family First When They Need More Support
If you notice that your teen is struggling with stress and it’s affecting their daily life, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Family First Adolescent Services offers a variety of programs specifically tailored to teens, including anxiety treatment and therapy. Our team of professionals will work closely with your family to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your teen’s unique needs. Call 888.904.5947 or reach out online now.
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