A new school year is here. And while many teenagers get excited about the possibilities of the year ahead, the thought of returning to school triggers feelings of intense anxiety for others.
Social anxiety affects up to one in three teens between the ages of 13 and 18, and it can be challenging — both for teens and their parents. The good news is there are steps you can take to support your child and help them manage their anxiety heading into the new year.
Our psychotherapy team at Boston Neurobehavioral Associates is here to help. We offer telehealth care for anxiety, and practical tips to help families navigate mental health conditions. Here are four steps to take if you think your teen has social anxiety.
The first step is learning to recognize the signs of social anxiety and let your teen know you support them.
Social anxiety often manifests as an intense fear of judgment, embarrassment, or humiliation in social situations, like school. Your teen might try to avoid social situations, like skipping school events or refusing to participate in group activities.
It's important to let your teen know that their feelings are valid and that you want to help them. Taking a non-judgmental approach helps create a safe space for them to open up and express their feelings.
Educating yourself about social anxiety is key to understanding your teen's experience. Partnering with a therapist helps you learn about the condition and gives you the support you need to find appropriate strategies to help your teen.
Our therapists can help you understand the symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Along with professional support, we can recommend additional resources and online support groups where you can connect with other parents going through similar situations.
Once you have a better understanding of social anxiety, you can put your knowledge to use by offering your teen informed guidance. Teaching your teen healthy coping mechanisms is essential for managing social anxiety, and helpful methods include:
You can also help your teen develop effective communication and assertiveness skills, which can boost their confidence in social situations. Encourage them to practice self-care and take regular breaks from their stressors.
One of the best things you can do to support your teen is to give them the opportunity to talk with a therapist. Therapy provides a safe and confidential environment for them to identify what triggers their anxiety and start developing coping strategies.
A therapist with experience in treating adolescent social anxiety can guide your teen through evidence-based therapy and help them challenge negative thought patterns, manage their anxiety symptoms, and gradually face their fears.
Supporting a teenager with social anxiety requires patience, understanding, and a proactive approach — and you don’t have to do it alone. Call the Boston Neurobehavioral Associates office nearest you, or request a consultation online to learn more.
