Anxiety is part of life. All kids worry sometimes. But when worry stops a teen from living, it needs attention. We will help you spot the difference. We will also show how Ancient of Days Psychiatry, LLC can help.
What Is Normal Teen Anxiety?
Normal worry comes and goes. It shows up before a test or a big game. Normal worry lets the teen still do things. They can still go to school and hang out with friends. Normal worry does not last for weeks on end.
Signs of normal worry:
- Short worries about school, friends, or looks.
- Can sleep most nights.
- Still does chores and homework.
- Can talk about the worry.
When Anxiety Needs Attention
Some worry becomes more than normal. It can make daily life hard. Watch for these signs.
Red flags:
- Worry lasts many weeks and gets worse.
- Avoiding school or friends.
- Missing a lot of class or getting low grades.
- Trouble sleeping most nights.
- Not eating or sudden weight change.
- Constant stomachaches or headaches with no clear cause.
- Panic attacks: fast heart, difficulty breathing, dizziness.
- Self-harm or talk of hurting themselves.
- Using alcohol or drugs to calm down.
- Big mood swings or anger.
- Trouble with memory or focus every day.
If you see any of these, the teen needs help from a doctor or mental health professional.
How to Watch Your Teen without Spying
You want to help, not shame. Try these simple steps.
- Talk calmly. Use “I” lines. Example: “I’m worried because you seem sad.”
- Do not rush them. Give space to share.
- Spend time together. Small talks matter.
- Keep routines: sleep, meals, homework time.
- Note changes in schoolwork, sleep, friends, or habits.
How to Start a Talk
Start small and be kind. Here are easy lines:
- “I noticed you’ve seemed tired. Want to talk?”
- “You don’t have to fix this alone. I’m here.”
- “Would you like help getting a doctor to talk with?”
Be ready to listen. Don’t judge. If your teen won’t talk, try writing a short note or texting.
What to Expect From Professional Care
A mental health visit starts with a careful check. The provider will ask about sleep, school, and mood. They may meet with you and your teen. Tests can help rule out other causes.
At Ancient of Days Psychiatry, LLC, and the team:
- Gives full assessments for teens.
- Treats anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, and more.
- Offers therapy and medication when needed.
- Helps with trauma, grief, and self-injury.
- Supports the whole family.
Susan Gilbert, ARNP, PMHNP-BC, leads the practice. She has deep experience and works with kids, teens, and adults. The goal is to find what helps your teen feel safe and well.
Common Treatments That Help
There are clear, proven ways to help teens with anxiety.
Therapy
- Talk therapy teaches skills to manage worry.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, helps change scary thoughts.
- Family therapy can improve home supports.
Medication
- Some teens do well with medicine and therapy.
- Medicine is decided after a careful review.
- The provider watches for effects and adjusts as needed.
School Support
- Schools can give time to take tests or let a teen rest.
- A plan at school can ease stress and set clear steps for help.
What You Can Do Today
You can take steps now that make a difference.
- Keep a calm routine for sleep and meals.
- Limit screens before bed.
- Encourage small steps, like one class or one friend hangout.
- Praise the teen for small wins.
- Get help early. Early help changes the path.
When it’s an Emergency
If your teen talks about killing themselves or you think they might hurt themselves now:
- Do not leave them alone.
- Call local emergency services right away.
- Take them to the nearest emergency room.
- If they use drugs to cope and are in danger, get help now.
How Ancient Of Days Psychiatry Can Help
Ancient of Days Psychiatry treats teens with care and skill. They do full checks and make plans that fit your teen. They help with:
- Mood disorders like depression and anxiety.
- ADHD and school struggles.
- Trauma and self-injury.
- Medication management and therapy.
- Support for families.
You will meet a friendly team that listens. The care plan will match your teen’s needs. The aim is steady progress and real tools to cope.
Conclusion
You know your teen best. Trust what you see and feel. If worry takes over school, sleep, or joy, get help. Early steps help teens get back to life. You don’t need to work it out on your own. Ancient of Days Psychiatry, LLC can stand with you and your teen on the way to feeling better.
FAQs
Q. Will My Teen Need Medicine?
Maybe. Some teens do well with medicine and therapy. The provider will check and decide.
Q. How Can I Tell If My Teen’s Worry Is Normal?
Normal worry is short. It does not stop school, sleep, or friends.
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