As a parent, recognizing when your teen is struggling with anxiety can be challenging. Adolescence is a time of significant change, and while some anxiety is typical and expected, excessive anxiety can negatively impact their well-being. Here are the top five signs that your teen may be dealing with anxiety and could benefit from seeing a licensed therapist who specializes in teen mental health:

1. Changes in Sleep Patterns
Teens with anxiety often experience disruptions in their sleep. They may have difficulty falling asleep due to racing thoughts or wake up frequently throughout the night. Some teens might oversleep as a way to escape anxious feelings. Whether it’s trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping too much, significant changes in sleep patterns may indicate that it’s time to consult a teen mental health therapist.

2. Irritability and Mood Swings
Mood swings are a common part of adolescence, but if your teen is consistently irritable, it could be a sign of underlying anxiety. Teens struggling with anxiety might become easily frustrated or have emotional outbursts over minor issues. This irritability is often the result of internal stress and worry that they don’t know how to manage. A licensed mental health professional can help your teen learn how to regulate their emotions.

3. Avoidance of Social Situations
Teens who suddenly avoid social activities they once enjoyed may be dealing with social anxiety. This might look like skipping school, avoiding friends, or making excuses to stay home. Teens with social anxiety often feel uncomfortable or even panicked in social situations, leading them to withdraw. An anxiety therapist can work with your teen to develop coping strategies to manage social anxiety and rebuild their confidence.

4. Physical Complaints
Anxiety often shows up as physical symptoms, especially in teens who may not fully understand their emotional experiences. Common complaints include stomachaches, headaches, muscle tension, or dizziness. These symptoms tend to appear without a clear medical explanation and may get worse in anxiety-inducing situations like tests or social gatherings. A licensed therapist can help identify whether these physical issues are linked to anxiety.

5. Perfectionism and Overachievement
While being motivated is a positive trait, teens with anxiety may develop perfectionist tendencies. They might place unrealistic expectations on themselves, fear failure, and become overly critical when they don’t meet their high standards. In some cases, they may avoid tasks altogether if they fear they won’t succeed. A therapist trained to work with teens can guide your adolescent in managing perfectionism and developing healthier, more balanced approaches to their goals.

How Can You Help Your Teen?
If you recognize any of these signs in your teen, it’s crucial to approach them with compassion and patience. Open conversations about their feelings and offering reassurance can help them feel supported. It may be helpful to build in some “one on one” times with your teen incorperating things like a walk, making a cup of tea together or going out for a hot chocoloate. This will open the door for connection and give them a built in opportunity to share their challenges with you. Seeking help from a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in teen anxiety is a great way to ensure your teen gets the professional support they need. Therapy provides teens with effective tools to manage their anxiety and build resilience.

At North Shore Therapy, Sarah is an experienced anxiety therapist who specializes in helping teens and their families navigate the challenges of anxiety. If you’re concerned about your teen’s mental health, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your family.