During the transformative years of adolescence, it is extremely common for teenagers aged 13 to 18 to undergo a significant rise in anxiety levels. This can be attributed to the rapid changes and reorganization happening in their developing brains, making them more vulnerable to heightened anxiety compared to any other phase of their lives.  

We offer adolescent anxiety treatment to help teens understand it’s possible to manage their anxiety constructively. To learn more about adolescent mental health treatment programs, call us at 888.904.5947 or reach out to us online today. 

What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal and healthy emotion that everyone experiences in certain situations. It is the body’s natural response to stress or danger, also known as the “fight-or-flight” response. When faced with a threat, anxiety helps people react quickly and protect themselves. 

However, for some, anxiety can become overwhelming and interfere with daily life. This excessive worry and fear may be a sign of an anxiety disorder, which affects approximately 18% of the adult population in the United States. 

People with anxiety disorders may experience intense and persistent feelings of worry, fear, or apprehension that are difficult to control. These feelings can be triggered by specific situations or events, or they may occur without any identifiable cause. 

Anxiety disorders can manifest in different ways, including: 

• Generalized anxiety disorder 
• Panic disorder 
• Social anxiety disorder 
• Specific phobias 

Each type of anxiety disorder has its own set of symptoms and challenges. 

If your teen struggles with anxiety, treatment can help. Professionals may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and self-care practices in care plans to help them develop healthy ways to cope with their symptoms. 

Signs and Symptoms of Teen Anxiety

Anxiety, a psychological and physiological response to perceived threats, can stem from many sources, including complex trauma, genetics, and stressful life events. It serves as our body’s signal that there are unresolved or threatening internal dynamics that demand attention.  

Teens may display anxiety differently than adults since they may not be truly aware of what’s happening. You might notice your teen:  

• Complaining of physical symptoms like headaches and stomachaches with no underlying medical causes 
• Being more irritable than usual 
• Having trouble falling or staying asleep 
• Avoiding certain activities or situations that cause them distress  
• Experiencing panic attacks, which are intense periods of fear and agitation  
• Isolating or binging video games or screen time 

At Family First, we take a comprehensive approach to teen anxiety treatment. This includes neuropsychological and psychiatric evaluations, followed by weekly follow-up sessions, physical exercise, and focused therapeutic interventions tailored to each individual’s needs. By addressing anxiety from various angles, we strive to provide holistic support for our clients’ well-being.

Teen Anxiety: By the Numbers

When your teen is experiencing anxiety, it’s important that they know they’re not alone. Anxious feelings can make them feel isolated and misunderstood, but the statistics show that it’s a common experience: 

• A staggering 41% of first-year college students report feeling “overwhelmed” with anxiety, an alarming statistic that highlights the growing mental health challenges faced by young adults entering higher education. 
• The prevalence of anxiety disorders among teens is also a cause for concern, with nearly one in three adolescents experiencing such conditions. This emphasizes the urgent need for effective interventions and support systems to address their mental well-being. 
• Studies reveal that 19% of teenagers grapple with specific phobias, shedding light on the extent of anxiety-related issues that impact the daily lives of adolescents. 

These statistics underscore the importance of promoting awareness, destigmatizing mental health, and providing accessible resources to help teens navigate their anxieties and fears.

Our Approach to Adolescent Anxiety Treatment 

The Family First approach to adolescent anxiety treatment integrates different methods tailored to the unique needs of each teenager.  

• Individual therapy – Therapists use evidence-based techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help teens understand anxiety’s root causes, develop coping strategies, and build resilience by challenging negative thought patterns. 
• Group therapy – Teens facing similar challenges connect in a safe space for sharing and learning. These sessions reduce isolation and foster mutual support and understanding. 
• Family therapy – Family therapy sessions improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships within the family. Involving the family ensures a supportive home environment for the teen’s recovery and well-being. 
• Experiential therapies – We include holistic therapies such as exercise, equine, yoga, and art therapy. These practices help manage stress, increase self-awareness, and promote emotional regulation, addressing the mind-body connection. 
• Psychiatric support – For severe anxiety, psychiatric interventions, including medication, may be necessary. Our psychiatrists conduct thorough evaluations for appropriate treatment plans, with close monitoring for safety and well-being. We never prescribe or modify medication plans without parental understanding and approval. 
• Customized treatment plans– Each adolescent receives personalized treatment plans based on thorough assessments. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures tailored therapeutic interventions to meet specific needs and goals. 

At Family First, we are committed to empowering teens to overcome anxiety and lead fulfilling lives. Through a blend of proven therapeutic techniques and compassionate care, we can make a positive, lasting difference in the lives of our clients and their families.

Get Help at Family First in Florida

At Family First Adolescent Services, we know you want to find the best care for your teen. We strive to provide more than just a safe and supportive environment. Our dedicated professionals create a caring and nurturing atmosphere that is essential for your teen’s healing journey. 

There are two levels of care available at our treatment center in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Our boys-only residential program offers 24/7 support while teens stay in our secure, comfortable accommodations. Girls and boys can both get treatment in our day program, which allows them to return home after therapy each day. 

Don’t hesitate to reach out for support and guidance if your teen is struggling with anxiety. Remember, it’s never too late to seek help and start on a path toward improved mental health. So, don’t wait any longer. Call 888.904.5947 or connect with us online today to find the help your teen needs.