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Seven-in-ten teens today see Anxiety & Depression as major
problems among their peers, more than drugs, or alcohol use (Pew Research Center survey of U.S. teens ages 13 to 17, Feb 2019.) According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 25% of 13- to 18-year-olds have an anxiety disorder, and just under 6% have a severe anxiety disorder. Most anxious teens get trapped by rigid thinking Perfectionism: “Everything must—and can– be done perfectly” (also known as all or nothing thinking) Catastrophic thinking: “If one thing goes wrong, everything will fall apart and I won’t be successful in life.” The One Path Myth: “There is ONE PATH to a successful life. I have to find it or stay on it, no matter what!” Affecting daily life: ● Being very afraid when away from parents (separation anxiety) ● Having extreme fear about a specific thing or situation, (phobias) ● Being very afraid of school and other places where there are people (social anxiety) Here are 4 things you can commit to as a parent: • I'm keeping the lines of communication open and honest. • I'm helping him explore healthy ways to cope. • I'm helping her get connected to the resources and support she needs. • I'm trying to not be afraid (or ashamed) to accept the reality of anxiety or depression. |