Helping Teens Develop Healthy Coping Skills for Anxiety

The teenage years – outside of the toddler years – are where some of your child’s most significant developments occur. From puberty to driving a car, your child is about to experience a different side of life that will lead them into the next phase of their existence.

Unfortunately, these are also the years when anxiety can creep up on a child and create unhealthy coping mechanisms for dealing with it. However, there is help! Knowing your child can help you understand what makes them anxious and develop better ways to cope.

How Anxiety Develops in Teens

Anxiety can develop in teens for all kinds of reasons, and it’s usually a mix of things rather than one single cause. School pressure, social expectations, and significant life changes can feel overwhelming. Hormones and brain development also make emotions hit harder during these years. Some teens may absorb stress from family dynamics or feel anxious after challenging experiences. For others, anxiety runs in the family.

So, How Can You Help?

Helping your teenager manage anxiety is part of your job as a parent. Everything you do is under a microscope, so your first job is to be the best example. You want your child to see that things can be handled calmly and effectively.

The next best thing you can do is create a safe space for your child to open up without judgment. Keeping an open line of communication can never be understated.

From there, simple habits like regular movement, deep breathing, or even short mindfulness exercises can make a big difference. Encouraging routines, like consistent sleep and breaks from screens, helps their nervous system settle. It’s also essential to guide them toward supportive friendships and activities that boost their confidence.

However, if you feel like you’re out of your element, working with a therapist can give teens extra tools to manage stress in a smoother, more grounded way.

Be the Shining Star for Your Child

When it’s time to help your teenager thrive in life, therapy can be the solution. Havenplay Counseling is one of the leading child and teen mental health facilities in the community. Your child deserves to grow up with healthy coping mechanisms. Trust us to help you lead the way. Contact us today to learn more.