Anxiety in Teens: Causes, Symptoms, and How Parents Can Help

Anxiety in teenagers is a growing concern across the globe, especially in fast-paced societies dealing with academic pressure, social media influences, and global uncertainty. As a parent, recognising the signs early and offering supportive intervention can make a significant difference in your teen’s emotional wellbeing and long-term mental health outcomes.

What Is Teen Anxiety?

Anxiety is more than just occasional worry or nervousness. For teens, it can manifest as persistent fear or dread that disrupts their daily activities, school performance, friendships, and family life. According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), one in five South African teens suffers from a mental health condition, with anxiety being one of the most common.

Common Causes of Anxiety in Teenagers

Teenage years are marked by rapid physical, emotional, and social changes. Several overlapping factors can contribute to heightened anxiety levels in teens:

1. Academic Pressure

High expectations for grades and career paths can leave teens feeling overwhelmed, especially in highly competitive school environments.

• Social Media and Peer Comparison

Social platforms often create unrealistic standards for appearance, popularity, and success, increasing feelings of inadequacy and social anxiety.

• Family Conflict or Instability

Divorce, financial stress, or ongoing family disagreements can disrupt a teen’s sense of safety and stability.

• Bullying and Peer Pressure

Both online and in-person bullying can lead to chronic stress, self-esteem issues, and fear of social interaction.

• Trauma or Loss

Experiencing a traumatic event, such as the death of a loved one or exposure to violence, can trigger anxiety disorders.

• Genetics and Brain Chemistry

If there is a family history of anxiety or other mood disorders, a teen may be genetically predisposed. Imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine can also play a role.

Symptoms of Anxiety in Teens

The symptoms of anxiety can be emotional, physical, and behavioural. It’s essential to look out for patterns that persist over weeks or months.

Emotional Symptoms:

• Constant worry or fear
• Feeling irritable or on edge
• Avoidance of social situations
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Physical Symptoms:

• Fatigue or insomnia
• Stomach aches or headaches with no clear cause
• Sweating or trembling
• Shortness of breath or rapid heartbeat

Behavioural Symptoms:

• Withdrawing from friends or family
• Declining academic performance
• Refusal to go to school
• Repeatedly seeking reassurance

If these symptoms interfere with daily life, your teen may have an anxiety disorder, such as Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, or Panic Disorder.

How Parents Can Help: Practical Strategies

Supporting a teen with anxiety requires patience, empathy, and proactive involvement. Here are evidence-based ways parents can help:

1. Create a Safe and Open Environment

Encourage open dialogue about emotions. Let your teen know that it’s okay to feel anxious and that you’re there to support them, not to judge.

• Model Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Teens often mirror adult behaviours. Managing your own stress through healthy outlets (e.g., mindfulness, journaling, or physical activity) teaches by example.

• Establish Routines and Boundaries

Predictability helps anxious teens feel safe. Set consistent mealtimes, bedtimes, and screen time limits, while also allowing room for flexibility.

• Limit Screen Time and Promote Real-Life Socialisation

Encourage offline friendships and hobbies that promote real-world connections and confidence, such as sports, volunteering, or creative arts.

• Help Them Develop Problem-Solving Skills

Rather than fixing every problem for your teen, help them break challenges into smaller, manageable steps. This builds resilience and autonomy.

• Encourage Physical Activity and Healthy Eating

Regular exercise can reduce anxiety by boosting mood-regulating endorphins. A balanced diet helps stabilise energy levels and brain function.

• Seek Professional Support When Needed

If anxiety symptoms are severe or persistent, consult a mental health professional. In South Africa, you can reach out to SADAG, your local GP, or school counsellor for referrals.

Therapeutic Options Available

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

This is one of the most effective treatments for teen anxiety. CBT helps teens identify and challenge negative thinking patterns and develop healthier responses.

Medication

In some cases, anti-anxiety medications may be recommended. These should always be prescribed and monitored by a qualified psychiatrist.

Family Therapy

Family involvement can address relational dynamics contributing to anxiety and improve communication and support within the household.

When to Worry: Red Flags to Act On

If your teen expresses any of the following, urgent help is required:

• Suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviours
• Complete withdrawal from friends and activities
• Dramatic changes in eating or sleeping patterns
• Panic attacks that occur regularly

In such cases, contact a mental health professional immediately or reach out to emergency helplines such as Lifeline South Africa (0861 322 322).

Final Thoughts: Supporting Your Teen Is a Long-Term Commitment

Helping your teenager manage anxiety isn’t about eliminating stress entirely—it’s about equipping them with tools to navigate it. With the right support at home and appropriate professional intervention when necessary, teens can overcome anxiety and thrive emotionally, academically, and socially.

If you’re concerned about your teen’s anxiety or mental health, don’t wait. Early intervention makes a meaningful difference. Contact us today for professional support tailored to your family’s needs.