In teens, anxiety and depression tend to go hand-in-hand, despite the fact that they are two very distinct conditions. 

The more you think about it, the more it makes sense that depression may spur on anxiety, or vice versa. A teen who is struggling with depression may face academic hardship and feel anxious over failing grades. Likewise, a teen with anxiety over their social status may feel depressed over a lack of strong friendships or not fitting into a desired clique. 

In both cases, the conditions exist separately but also exacerbate the symptoms of the other. This makes early recognition and support all the more crucial, and highlights the key role that parents and other caregivers have in helping teens take proactive steps toward recovery. 

The Ridge RTC is committed to supporting teens through a wide range of mental health challenges, including co-occurring disorders. Read on to learn about this important topic, including the signs of depression and anxiety in teens and what parents can do to help. 

Understanding the Connection Between Teen Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are closely linked. In fact, it’s estimated that some 60% of those with anxiety also have symptoms of depression, with the same percentage of those with depression experiencing symptoms of anxiety. 

The reasons for this are not entirely understood, but likely come down to the fact that the two conditions present similarly in the brain and share many of the same symptoms – for example, sleep troubles, physical manifestations, and abrupt changes in mood and behavior. 

Unfortunately, co-occurring teen anxiety and depression come with a few unique challenges in terms of effective treatment. This includes higher risks of numbing strategies like substance use and a higher risk of misdiagnosis, making it all the more essential that teens receive care from professionals who specialize in dual diagnosis. 

Common Signs of Depression and Anxiety in Teens

Co-occurring depression and anxiety can take a major toll on a teen’s schoolwork, relationships, and everyday life, especially if left untreated. To make sure you address it early on, be on the lookout for signs such as:

• Physical Symptoms: Fatigue, sleep disturbances, and appetite changes
• Emotional Symptoms: Persistent sadness, excessive worry, and irritability
• Behavioral Symptoms: Social withdrawal, declining academic performance, and a lack of interest in previously enjoyed hobbies

As a parent or caregiver of a teen, you should always be vigilant for signs of emotional distress. This goes double, however, if your teen has risk factors for depression and/or anxiety, such as a family history or genetic disposition, excessive stress, or has undergone past trauma or significant life changes. 

How to Help a Teenager with Anxiety and Depression

When it comes to how to help a teenager with anxiety and depression, the answer depends on the severity of the conditions and the impact they are having on your child’s life. 

At home, make sure to encourage open communication and validate your teenager emotionally, even when you’re having trouble relating. You should also make a point of teaching (and modeling) self-care exercises such as relaxation, mindfulness, and exercise, all of which can help relieve the symptoms of depression and anxiety in young people. 

For teens who are really struggling, professional help is available. This may include individual counseling, group therapy, medication management, or even specialized teen mental health treatment like our residential program at Ridge RTC. Professional support ensures your teen gets the right diagnosis and level of care for their needs. It also provides opportunities for family involvement in the treatment process and the creation of a joint plan for long-term recovery. 

Specific treatment modalities that tend to be most helpful for treating depression and anxiety in teens include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

Self-Care for Parents

Depression and anxiety can be difficult on the whole family, and that includes parents. While we understand your teen’s needs are a top priority, take care to manage your own stress and avoid burnout. This may mean practicing the mindfulness and relaxation techniques you’re working on with your child, as well as reaching out to your support network as needed. Many parents of teens with mental health conditions also benefit from therapy themselves. 

Support for Teens with Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions

There’s a strong link between anxiety and depression among teenagers, with the potential for co-occurring conditions and more intense symptoms of one or both disorders. For your teen’s well-being, you should aim for early intervention, with a focus on specialized programs designed around the needs of dual diagnosis. The Ridge RTC offers support for teens with anxiety and depression at our residential treatment centers in Maine and New Hampshire. Explore our website for additional resources, or get in touch to discuss available treatment options and support services.