Why Understanding What Causes Anxiety in Teens is Important
If you’ve noticed your teen has been very anxious lately, you’re probably wondering why. It’s vital to know what causes in anxiety in teens because before you can help your teen, you must understand the cause of the problem. What causes anxiety in teens varies from case to case, but there are some things that most teenagers have in common.
5 Things That Cause Anxiety in Teens
Below, in a random order, are five things that cause anxiety in teens.
1. The News
Over the years, I have worked with countless teenagers who are in a panic over something they saw or read in the news. Because the news rarely reports positive events, it’s easy to feel anxious after reading or watching it. Stories about school shootings, wars, disease, etc. can significantly raise teen (or adult) stress.
2. Problems with Friends
When friends are fighting or having drama, teens feel their whole world has turned upside down. Though as a parent you have the perspective to understand everything will probably work out, it doesn’t feel this way to teens. This is often a big part of what causes anxiety in teens.
3. Pressure to Get Good Grades
This is a constant source of anxiety for just about every teenager I see in my office. Most teenagers feel they need to do better than they are doing, even when they have a 3.5 or 4.0 GPA. Help your teen set reasonable goals and then be satisfied when these are reached.
4. Parents Expressing Disappointment
Many teenagers act as if they don’t care that their parents are disappointed in something they did. However, this isn’t actually how they feel. Nearly every teen I’ve ever worked with cares deeply about what their parents think. They just don’t want to let it show. If they feel constantly criticized, their stress tends to increase. This is a huge part of what causes anxiety in teens.
This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t correct your teen when they do something wrong, it’s just important to do it the right way. Discipline your teen lovingly but firmly. Avoid any phrasing that your teen might perceive as an attack on them directly rather than a single action.
5. Dating
Navigating dating and sexuality can be really challenging for teenagers. Whether they are very shy and barely let themselves have a crush, or they are constantly dating and already sexually active, it can create a lot of stress. It’s important to help your teen make wise choices during this stage. Keep in mind, if they’re not getting guidance from you, they’re getting it from other teenagers. Who’s more likely to give good advice? Instead of ignoring it or completely forbidding dating (which often leads to sneaking), set clear boundaries and stay involved without being intrusive.
Final Thoughts on What Causes Anxiety in Teens
If your teen consistently expresses worry about one or multiple of these things, it may be what’s causing your teen’s anxiety. Even if you’re still not sure about what’s at the root of your teen’s stress, try addressing these areas and see if you’re teen’s anxiety starts to improve. Once you find the problem and work to help your teen through it, hopefully they’ll be on the path back to their normal selves.
Helping teens grow and families improve connection,
Lauren Goodman, MS, MFT