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Many people say that the elder we become, the more
worries we will have. This is quite true to some extent, but the fact is that
adults are not the only ones who can suffer from anxiety. Some young people,
especially teenagers, are also experiencing this mental problem and, in fact,
they are arguably more susceptible to anxiety and panic attacks. The pressure of
academic accomplishment, worries about socialization and changes in personal
life can all be the causes. Compared to adults, teenagers lack the maturity and
skills to cope with the harsh situations around them, and problems usually come
about when proper guidance is not available.
Parents and
teachers are usually held responsible for the unhealthy
condition of their kids, as they warn them to work hard with
their subjects and get good grades so that they can enter a
reputable college when the day comes. This alone could drive a
teenager to endless apprehension. Aside from that, there is also
the social side of school, where teens are always intermingling
amongst antagonism, competition, distressing romance, jealousy
and increasing problems with cruelty, racism and religious
tolerance. All of this can lead to substantial degree of anxiety
in a young and susceptible mind.
With all these pressures, some teenagers are able
to conquer as they have developed stronger minds. However, this is not the case
with every one and most teenagers today are filled with insecurities and have
low self-image, and these ones are more likely to suffer anxiety disorders.
What's worse, instead of seeking professional help such as psychotherapy or
medications, some teenagers have turned to external sources such as drugs,
alcohol or sexual promiscuity in order to alleviate their anxiety. This is sad
but true.
If you have
noticed that a teenager is undergoing a mental problem, try to
raise it up with his/her teacher or parent. Parents should also
talk to their children about any possible problems at school
from time to time and be especially observant about their
behavior. Loss of appetite, social withdrawal, irritability,
concentration difficulty, insomnia, fatigue and restlessness are
all signs of a possible anxiety disorder. Just keep in mind
that, like adults, the younger generation has serious problems
going on too. So, let's face it and be there for them.
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