Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health problems in the US. 1 in 10 teens struggle with an anxiety disorder (Anxiety and Depression Association of America). Fortunately, therapy can help teens to manage symptoms of anxiety. Learn more about anxiety and teen anxiety treatment NJ below.
What is anxiety?
“At its core, anxiety is simply the body’s reaction to stressful, dangerous, or unfamiliar situations.” –anxiety.org
Anxiety is identified by mental and physical distress. It occurs when we experience or are anticipating situations that we have been conditioned to fear or worry about.
While most people will experience anxiety in their lives, people with anxiety disorders experience this distress more frequently and at higher and more debilitating intensities. As a matter of fact, anxiety disorders can prevent individuals from being able to do typical things. One of the most common forms of anxiety is social anxiety.
Signs of Teen Anxiety
Symptoms of anxiety generally occur in anticipation of specific events that have not yet happened.
- Excessive Worrying or Being Afraid
- Extreme Stress or Restlessness
- Becoming Flushed or Sweaty
- Lack of Focus or Difficulty Sleeping
- Nausea and Headaches
- Persistent Negative Thoughts
- Avoidance of Activities that Induce Above Reactions
Fight or Flight?
Anxiety is our body’s way of telling us that we are in danger. These instincts are natural. However, over time, they have changed in accordance with a change in our fears. For example, our bodies used to warn us about things that could kill us. Now, it warns us about negative experiences like rejection, failure, or sadness.
Part of overcoming feelings of anxiety is “fact-checking” these fears. Is rejection really a threat? How dangerous is failing this exam? Through fact-checking, uncomfortable and worrisome situations become less threatening. As a result, we will experience less anxiety or distress.
Blueprint Mental Health Teen Anxiety Treatment NJ
Blueprint Mental Health specializes in the use of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Â and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in teens. Both therapies are proven effective in the treatment of anxiety. We work with individuals and their families to help them regulate emotions and cope with stressors.
For more information, call 908-256- 6965 or e-mail info@blueprintmentalhealth.com.