Adolescent Anxiety: Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Anxiety during adolescence can manifest in various ways, often affecting both emotional well-being and physical health. Understanding the signs is the first step toward effective management and support.

Emotional and Psychological Symptoms

One of the most common indicators of anxiety in teenagers is noticeable mood changes. These may include persistent feelings of tension, worry, or fear. In many cases, this anxiety presents as restlessness, an inability to relax, or a constant sense of being "on edge." Fear can be specific—such as a phobia of certain objects, situations, or bodily fluids—or it may be more generalized, where the source of the anxiety is unclear, leading to chronic unease without a defined cause.

Physical and Physiological Symptoms

In addition to emotional symptoms, anxiety often triggers a range of physical responses. These are typically linked to dysfunction in the autonomic nervous system and can affect multiple body systems. Common physical symptoms include rapid heartbeat, palpitations, chest tightness, excessive sweating, trembling hands, dizziness, headaches, and gastrointestinal issues like stomach pain and bloating. Some teens may also experience frequent urination, skin conditions such as neurodermatitis, mouth ulcers, hair loss, or a persistent sensation of something stuck in the throat.

Combined Impact of Emotional and Physical Symptoms

When both psychological distress and physical discomfort occur together, it often points to an anxiety disorder. The combination of emotional tension and unexplained physical symptoms can significantly impact a teenager's daily life, making it essential to seek professional guidance and support for proper diagnosis and treatment.