If you have noticed that more young people seem worried, overwhelmed, or emotionally stretched than ever before then you are not imagining it. Across homes and classrooms anxiety is becoming a common part of growing up. As parents, carers, and educators it can feel both confusing and concerning - especially when we are not always sure what is driving it or how best to respond.
Let’s unpack what is going on, what anxiety can look like in adolescents and young people and how you can support them in ways that truly help.
What is behind the rise in anxiety in teens?
There is not one single cause. Instead, it is a combination of modern pressures that many children are navigating all at once.
A fast-paced, always-on world - our children today are growing up in an environment that rarely switches off. Between school de
mands, extracurricular activities and exposure to digital media their minds are often constantly stimulated. Even children can feel the pressure to “keep up.”
Social media and comparison culture - older teens, in particular, are facing a steady stream of curated images and opinions online. This can lead to comparison, low self-esteem, and a fear of not being “good enough.”
Academic and social pressures - expectations around achievement, both academically and socially, have intensified. Many young people feel they must perform well, fit in, and succeed often without the emotional tools to manage that pressure.
Increased awareness (which is not a bad thing) – we are talking about mental health more openly now, which means anxiety is recognised more often. While this can make it seem more widespread, it also means more children and young people are getting the support they need.
What does anxiety look like in young people?
Anxiety does not always present as obvious worry. In adolescents, it can show up in ways that are easy to miss or misunderstand.
Emotional signs:
• Frequent worry or fear, often about everyday situations
• Irritability or mood swings
• Low confidence or excessive self-doubt
Physical signs:
Stomach aches or headaches with no clear medical cause
Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
Feeling tired or tense
Poor personal hygiene
Changes to eating habits
Behavioural signs:
Avoiding school, activities or social situations
Clinginess, despite the age
Difficulty concentrating
Outbursts or meltdowns
Expression of anger towards parents or others
Withdrawal
Sometimes what looks like “bad behaviour” is actually a young person struggling to cope with overwhelming feelings.
How can you support an anxious child?
There is no perfect script, but there are ways to create a supportive environment that helps young people feel safer and more understood.
Listen first, fix later - when your child is anxious, they do not always need immediate solutions. They need to feel heard. Try phrases like, “That sounds really hard” or “I can see why you’d feel that way.”
Normalise their feelings - let your children know that anxiety is a normal human experience. It is not something to be ashamed of and it does not mean something is “wrong” with them.
Teach simple coping tools - breathing exercises, grounding techniques, or even taking a short break can help children manage anxious moments. Practising these together makes them easier to use when needed. You can find the instructions to the breathing exercise here
Model calm behaviour – young people pick up on how their parents respond to stress. Demonstrating calm problem-solving and emotional regulation can have a powerful impact.
Avoid over-reassurance – it is natural to want to protect your child from discomfort, but constantly removing challenges can reinforce anxiety. Gentle encouragement to face fears, step by step, builds resilience.
When to seek professional support
Sometimes anxiety can become overwhelming or persistent and additional support is needed. Reaching out is a positive and proactive step.
You might consider professional help if:
• Anxiety is interfering with school, friendships, or daily life
• Physical symptoms are frequent or severe
• Your child seems stuck in patterns of avoidance or distress
• Your child is withdrawn or has frequent emotional outbursts
• You feel unsure how to support them effectively
What professional services can help?
At the Wellbeing Centre London, a range of supportive services are available for adolescents, teens and families navigating anxiety:
A safe, confidential space where children can explore their thoughts and feelings with a trained professional who is trained to work with adolescents and teens.
An evidence-based approach that helps young people understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and then develop practical coping strategies.
Family Support Sessions
Working together as a family can improve communication, reduce stress, and create a more supportive home environment.
Parent Guidance and Coaching
Sometimes, parents need the right tools and reassurance to feel equipped supporting their child. Guidance sessions can make a significant difference.
A final thought
Anxiety in young people can feel daunting, but it is also something we can understand and support with the right approach. With patience, empathy, and the right tools, your child can learn to manage their worries and build resilience that will serve them for life.
If you are concerned about your child, you are not alone and support is available. Taking that first step to seek help can make all the difference.
Contact us to arrange a 15-minute free chat to discuss your child’s needs and the best way forward.
Give us a call on 07942 626 960 or 0800 8611 239, or reach out to us by email at contact@wellbeingcentrelondon.com
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