In view of Mental Health Awareness week, I've put together this practical guide helping with parenting through anxiety for parents of teenagers in response to the frequent worries they express to me regarding anxiety.
As a parent, it can be difficult to watch your teen struggle with anxiety and stress. The pressure of expectations from school, social media, and peers can be overwhelming and it can leave your teen feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. It’s important to understand that anxiety is a natural part of growing up and that it’s ok for your teen to feel anxious from time to time. This guide is designed to provide parents with the tools and support needed to help their teens manage their anxiety and develop healthier coping skills.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a natural and normal emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. It is your body's natural response to stress and can help you stay focused and alert. However, when anxiety in your teen becomes excessive or persistent, it can become a disorder and negatively impact daily life. Nearly 300,000 young people in Britain have an anxiety disorder. In the UK, anxiety disorders are estimated to affect 5-19% of all children and adolescents, and about 2-5% of children younger than 12 (according to www.nhsinform.scot).
Parents need to understand what anxiety is and how it affects their teen's life to provide the best support and care.
What are the symptoms of anxiety?
The majority of teenagers' worries are related to their feelings about themselves and include academic performance and pressures to succeed in school, how others perceive them and concerns about their body image.
Keep an eye out for the following signs:
Persistent fear or worry about simple, everyday life details.
Social withdrawal from friends or extracurriculars.
A short temper or an unprovoked, unexpected rage.
Potential problems at school or poor performance.
Refusal to attend school.
Troubled sleep.
Substance abuse.
Constantly looking for assurance.
How can I help my teen manage their anxiety?
If your teenager is an anxious individual, he or she might start refusing to go to school or will be prone to crying often or not participating in activities they usually do. The best thing you can do is talk to them and be sympathetic to their feelings. Be aware that these issues are a part of life, so assure them that they are not abnormal and are just experiencing a part of life, even though it might be frustrating and anxiety-provoking. This is the perfect time to ask your child to figure out how they're going to cope and what they're going to do in difficult moments. If you have a struggling teenager, the good news is that there are a variety of coping mechanisms they can learn to use to one improve their emotional resilience. This will help them manage their anxiety symptoms and enjoy life to the fullest.
Here are seven tips to help you support your teenager:
Listen and validate their feelings
Teach them mindfulness and relaxation techniques
Encourage them to exercise regularly
Help them practice good sleep habits
Support them in their interests and hobbies
Offer them healthy food options
Set boundaries and create routines
It is important to note that if your teenager's anxiety symptoms are interfering with their daily life, seeking professional help is crucial. A therapist can teach them additional coping mechanisms and help them develop skills to manage their anxiety effectively.
As a parent, it is also essential that you take care of yourself while parenting through anxiety. Remember that you cannot pour from an empty cup, so prioritise self-care activities and seek support if needed.
By modelling healthy coping strategies, you can set an excellent example for your teenager and promote their emotional well-being.
When should I seek professional help?
It can be difficult to determine when your struggling teenager needs professional help for their anxiety.
Here are four tips to help you make that decision:
Monitor their symptoms: Keep an eye on your teen's anxiety symptoms. If they seem to be getting worse or interfering with daily activities, it may be time to seek professional help.
Talk to their healthcare provider: If your teen's anxiety is causing significant distress or impacting their daily life, it's a good idea to talk to their healthcare provider. They can help assess the severity of the anxiety and provide referrals to mental health professionals if necessary.
Consider therapy: If your teen is struggling with anxiety, therapy can be a great resource. A trained therapist can teach your teen coping skills and emotional resilience to manage their anxiety.
Look for warning signs: If your teen is exhibiting warning signs of self-harm or suicide, it's crucial to seek professional help immediately.
Remember, seeking professional help for your struggling teenager does not mean you are a bad parent. It shows that you care about their well-being and want to provide the best possible support. Don't forget to take care of your own emotional resilience as well, as parenting through anxiety can be a challenging experience.
How can I take care of myself while parenting through anxiety?
As a parent, it can be challenging to support your teen through their anxiety while also managing your own emotions.
Here are five tips to help you take care of yourself while parenting through anxiety:
Practice self-care: Make sure to take care of your own mental and physical health. This may include exercise, healthy eating, meditation, therapy, or taking breaks when you need them.
Seek support: Don't be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for support. It can be helpful to have someone to talk to and share your worries with.
Manage stress: Find ways to manage your stress, such as through mindfulness practices, deep breathing, or other relaxation techniques.
Stay informed: Learn as much as you can about anxiety and your teen's specific symptoms and triggers. This can help you better understand and support your teen.
Set boundaries: It's important to prioritise your own needs and boundaries. Don't feel guilty for taking time for yourself or setting limits on your support.
I hope this helps!
Good Luck Parents,
Love CJ x
Comentarios