Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the United States. Research shows that over 25 percent of teens, ages 13 to 18, will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Despite this incredibly high chance of dealing with anxiety, very few actually end up receiving treatment for anxiety.
Studies have actually confirmed that up to 80 percent of children with diagnosable anxiety disorders never get treated for it. That’s an appalling number and it should scare parents to their very core. Dealing with anxiety is a normal part of life, but an anxiety disorder can cause an adolescent to experience high amounts of nervousness, fear, and even begin to avoid certain place and activities.
Ways to help combat anxiety and stress
When anxiety is ignored and no treatment is sought out, it has the capacity to disrupt daily life at school, at home, at work–nowhere is untouchable. It’s important to teach our children ways to cope with and manage anxiety when it becomes too much to handle.
- In moments of stress, breathe deeply. Those who suffer from anxiety often struggle to keep calm during stressful situations. Hands get clammy, knees get weak, and it’s suddenly hard to breathe. When you feel yourself starting to panic, it’s important to breathe deeply. Inhale through your nose while holding one nostril, keep that breath in for around 8 seconds, and slowly exhale through your mouth. Repeat for about a minute.
- Remember to be in the moment. Mindfulness practice has become increasingly popular, but it’s more than just a trend. Research has shown that mindfulness has the ability to decrease anxiety and depression, making it a powerful tool in treatment for anxiety in daily life.
- Don’t isolate, reach out to others. This can seem extremely hard for many, especially with the infamous stigma attached to mental health issues–but it’s critical to handling stress. Without the support of others in these times of struggle, it’s difficult to move forward or find any sense of resolution. While curving in on yourself may seem like an easy way to deal, bottling up these issues will just cause them to grow.
- Spend some time in nature. I’m not saying go on a 3-week hike through the Appalachian mountains (unless you’re into that)–studies show that spending around 10-minutes a day around nature (hiking, taking a stroll through a park, etc.) can lower anxiety and depression a significant amount.
Anxiety is a serious issue that requires serious help. If you believe your daughter may need treatment for anxiety or other mental health issues, it’s critical to reach out to a professional for further guidance.
Solstice East offers treatment for anxiety in teen girls
Solstice East is a residential treatment center for girls, ages 14 to 18. We understand the specific needs of girls, which is why our program is centered solely on them. Our students often grapple with depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and other emotional or behavioral problems when they come to us.
We have a strong emphasis on family therapy, nutrition, physical fitness. We also offer a supportive staff, cutting-edge academics, addiction therapy, equine therapy, and psychiatric services. At Solstice, we help set the stage for the infusion of light into the previously darkened lives of the families we serve.
For more information about treatment for anxiety at Solstice East, please contact us at 828-484-9946.