Recognizing the Signs of Adolescent Anxiety

About a quarter of all adolescents have an anxiety disorder, according to data from the American Academy of Family Physicians, with symptoms that can take a major toll on their physical and emotional health. As a parent, you certainly want to help your child overcome their worries — and that begins with knowing what signs to look for.

At One World Pediatrics, Jag Ambwani, MD, FAAP, Dolly Ubhrani, MD, April Mieswinkel, NP, Richard Lam, FNP, Gabrielle Yates, CPNP-PC, and Audrey M. Merrill, MD , help kids of all ages relieve anxiety with treatments focused on their unique needs and symptoms. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, our team is dedicating this post to a review of some of the more common signs of anxiety in kids and teens, so you can help your child find a solution as soon as possible.

Changes in sleep patterns

Changes in sleep patterns are often among the most noticeable symptoms of anxiety. You might notice your child is sleeping a lot more than normal, or conversely, they may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. 

Persistent fatigue

Not surprisingly, dealing with anxiety takes a big drain on your child’s energy. Adolescents (and adults, too) frequently feel fatigued or have very low levels of energy when they’re struggling with anxiety. This symptom can be exacerbated by poor sleep habits.

Belly pain or headaches

Stomachaches, headaches, or other aches and pains are another common symptom of anxiety in adolescents. Discomfort may worsen before major events, like exams or social gatherings, or it may occur on a more regular basis, like while waiting for the bus in the morning or before bed.

Irritability or moodiness

Anxiety often leads to mood “swings,” rapid mood changes, or emotional outbursts that may even include crying. You may find your teen is extra sensitive and emotionally reactive, especially if they perceive they’re being criticized or falling short in some way. Anxiety alters your child’s ability to cope, which may result in an increase in frustration, irritability, or even anger.

Fidgeting or nervous habits

All that nervous energy needs an outlet, and many kids develop habits like fidgeting, biting their nails, or moving their hands or feet rhythmically. Some kids develop compulsive or repetitive behaviors that help them feel more in control of their environment.

Excessive worry

Anxious kids tend to worry — a lot. Your child may worry about exams, homework, social activities, world events, their future, or the illness or injury of a family member, friend, or pet. Worries can seem all-consuming and out of proportion to anything that’s really occurring around them. 

As a result, your child may seek continual reassurance or indulge in negative thought patterns that can lead to more serious emotional health problems and even increase the risk of substance abuse or self-harm.

Social withdrawal

As with adults, adolescents who feel anxious may wind up withdrawing from social and family activities, avoiding activities they once enjoyed. Social withdrawal can eventually lead to isolation and an increase in the risk of depression.

Problems focusing

Being preoccupied with anxious feelings can make it harder for your teen to concentrate at school and at home, too. A low level of focus can result in problems with studying or doing homework, eventually leading to lower grades — and more anxiety.

Need to be perfect

Many anxious teens become obsessed with being perfect in everything they do. They may set unrealistically high standards, essentially setting themselves up for failure and more anxiety. Overemphasis on being perfect can lead to feelings of self-doubt, low self-esteem, and even self-hatred.

Early intervention is crucial

Not only is anxiety acutely unpleasant for your child, but it can also have a major impact on their school performance, their ability to socialize, and their long-term physical health and emotional wellness. To find out how we can help your child manage their anxiety symptoms, request an appointment online or over the phone with the team at One World Pediatrics in Longwood and Apopka, Florida, today.