Originally posted on https://www.zelusrecovery.com/addiction-blog/treating-anxiety-in-teens/

Adolescents go through unique struggles when it comes to managing their daily routine, handling social interactions and living up to the demands of school and their family life. Emotional changes and uncertainty can be hard to handle at any age. If young people lack the tools they need to cope with these issues, they can develop anxiety. Treating anxiety in teens can give them the foundation to live a healthy, well-rounded life.

DO ALL TEENS HAVE ANXIETY?

Some anxiety is normal. It’s a fear-based response that helps humans survive when they feel threatened. Although this instinct evolved as a way to keep us safe from predators, modern society presents very different threats.

Today, people may feel threatened by peer pressure, academic burdens or family conflict. For teens and young adults, anxiety may become an everyday experience. If it does, it may interfere with learning and behavior. Treating anxiety in teens can help them maintain healthy relationships, set boundaries and enjoy their lives without worry.

If you or a loved one has been looking for Boise addiction anxiety treatment for teens, continue reading to determine if it may be right for you.

SIGNS OF ANXIETY IN TEENS

Treating anxiety in teens isn’t always easy because symptoms aren’t always obvious. Anxious teenagers may be shy and want to please others. They could also exhibit problematic or risk-taking behavior.

For many young people, going on a date, taking an exam or playing in the big game can feel uneasy. They may have anxiety symptoms that dissipate when the tense situation is over. If the anxiety doesn’t go away, it can interfere with daily life.

Treating anxiety in teens may be necessary if an individual experiences the following:

• Irritability
• Trouble concentrating and restlessness
• Sudden outbursts
• Social avoidance or isolation
• Frequent aches and pains
• Difficulty sleeping
• Substance abuse or addiction

TREATING ANXIETY IN TEENS AT REHAB

Unfortunately, teens that aren’t taught to cope with anxiety may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to manage their intense feelings. Drugs activate the reward center of the brain, producing positive emotions and even euphoria even if you’re down or depressed. Over time, they change the way that the brain functions, making it harder to calm the anxiety without using substances.

That’s why it’s so important to include therapy for a dual diagnosiswhen treating anxiety in teens. Substance abuse is usually an indicator of another mental health condition, such as anxiety. As treatment addresses the underlying issue, teens and young adults experience a re-wiring of their brains.

They learn how to activate their reward centers without turning to drugs. Therapy that addresses the inherent needs of young people can set the foundation for a fulfilling life of sobriety.

The design of our Boise addiction treatment programs helps meet these needs. We focus on family involvement and offer several levels of care, including:

• Intensive outpatient programs
• Outpatient drug rehab
• Family therapy
• Early intervention
• Relationship therapy

No one should suffer from anxiety alone. At Zelus Recovery, we can help you gain the wisdom that you need to overcome life’s challenges and experience lasting sobriety. Call us at 866-365-4436 to learn how we can help with treating anxiety in teens.