Are you a parent or caregiver wondering how to help a teenager with anxiety and depression? Recognizing there’s a problem is an important first step, and the precursor to offering the right kind of support. 

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health conditions affecting adolescents. Among 15-19 year olds, roughly 5.5% struggle with an anxiety disorder and 3.5% with depression, and it’s not unusual for a teen to struggle with both anxiety and depression at the same time. In either case, early intervention is key and could help mitigate some of the major risks associated with these illnesses. 

The Ridge RTC provides dedicated mental health support for teens, including residential teenage depression treatment and anxiety treatment. Below, we’re sharing the signs of anxiety and depression in teens that parents need to look out for, plus the steps to take if you see something concerning. 

Anxiety and Depression in Teens

Depression and anxiety have a lot of overlapping symptoms, but there are some big differences as well. 

In teenagers, depression is generally characterized by persistent sadness, low energy, and social withdrawal. Symptoms of anxiety in teens include excessive worry, dread, and panic attacks. Both conditions can present with behavioral changes, mood swings, changes in appetite, and difficulty concentrating, and left untreated, both can have a profound effect on a teen’s daily life, schoolwork, and relationships.

It’s important to note that depression and anxiety can show up differently in teens than in adults. This is due to cognitive and developmental differences that impact how an illness presents and how an individual responds to it. With depression, for example, teens are more likely to experience loss of energy and appetite than adults.

Common Signs of Teen Anxiety and Depression

As a parent, one of the best things you can do is educate yourself on the signs of anxiety and depression in teens, including:

• Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or irritability
• Social withdrawal and loss of interest in activities
• Excessive worry, fear, or panic attacks
• Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Difficulty concentrating or declining academic performance
• Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach pain
• Self-harm or suicidal thoughts

Triggers vary by individual, but for teens may include academic pressure, social challenges, family conflict, major transitions, and/or hormonal changes. 

How to Help My Teenager with Anxiety and Depression? 6 Tips for Parents or Caregivers

It can be difficult to know what to do at the signs above. But if your first question is “how to help my teenager with anxiety and depression” – rather than “how can we ignore this and move on” – you’re already on the right track. Here are six things to start doing right away to ensure your teen has the necessary support. 

1. Encourage Open Communication: Create a safe space for your teen to express their feelings and experiences. 
2. Validate Emotions: Avoid dismissing or minimizing your child’s struggles, even if you’re having a hard time relating. 
3. Promote Healthy Coping Skills: Encourage exercise, journaling, mindfulness, or hobbies as a way to process stress and challenging emotions. 
4. Establish Structure: Help your teen maintain a balanced routine with sleep, nutrition, and activities. 
5. Limit Stressors: Identify the biggest triggers for your child and try to reduce them if possible. 
6. Encourage Social Connection: Talk to your teen about what healthy relationships look like and the importance of supportive friendships.

Make sure to take care of yourself, too. Self-care and a supportive network can make a big difference for parents and allow you to best show up when your child needs you. 

Teenage Anxiety Treatment and Depression Treatment: Know Your Options

Specialized depression or anxiety treatment for teenage patients is always available and may be warranted if one or both of these conditions are significantly impacting your child’s daily life. 

Examples of the types of treatment available include individual counseling, group therapy, and psychiatric support, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Some teens also benefit from the use of antidepressant or anti-anxiety medications. 

For teens who are really struggling, specialized residential programs like The Ridge RTC provide a safe and supportive setting with round-the-clock care, and can be crucial in helping your child develop the coping skills they need for lifelong health and well-being. 

Teenage Depression Treatment and Anxiety Treatment Programs

When it comes to how to help a teenager with anxiety and depression, it’s usually recommended that you combine the six strategies above with professional treatment. Doing so provides a multi-pronged response to a complex situation and ensures your child has their needs met as comprehensively as possible. We’re here for your family. Explore The Ridge RTC website for more information on depression and anxiety support services and treatment options, and get in touch for guidance and personalized treatment recommendations.