6 Signs of Anxiety in Teens

The intense amount of pressure adolescents face nowadays is enough to make anyone anxious. It’s normal for teens to experience stress and anxiety; it’s all a part of growing up! However, persistent anxiety can take a toll on their mental health, affecting more than just their own well-being. Unfortunately, signs of anxiety in teens are overlooked as “typical teenage behaviors.”

Anxiety isn’t just worry, it’s a mental health condition that can impact a teen’s quality of life. Recognizing these signs early and getting proper intervention can make all the difference.

1. Frequent Physical Complaints Without a Medical Cause

Anxiety can show up in the body before we even realize it’s there. Teens struggling with anxiety may have unexplainable complaints about how they’re feeling.

Physical symptoms may be:

• Stomachaches or nausea, especially before school or social events
• Headaches or migraines
• Muscle tension or fatigue
• Dizziness or shortness of breath
• Difficultly sleeping or frequent nightmares

These symptoms will occur in the absence of a medical condition and may worsen during times of high stress.

2. Excessive Worry or Catastrophic Thinking

While it’s normal for teens to worry about their grades, friendships, appearances, or their future, anxiety can make these thoughts overwhelming and constant.

Look for signs like:

• Repeatedly asking about “what if” scenarios and fearing the worst possible outcome for certain situations
• Struggling to move past minor mistakes or their perceived failures
• Constantly seeking reassurance from caregivers, teachers, or friends
• An exaggerated fear of something bad happening to loved ones

This persistent worry about daily situations can interfere with overall functioning.

3. Avoidance of Social Situations or Responsibilities

Anxiety can make teens avoid activities that trigger their fears. This isn’t just about them being “shy,” it’s a coping mechanism that protects them from threats to their safety, even if these threats are everyday experiences.

Examples of avoidance include:

• Skipping school or asking to leave early due to “not feeling well”
• Avoiding extracurriculars or previously enjoyed hobbies
• Withdrawing from friends or family gatherings
• Refusing to speak in class or participate in group projects

Over time, this kind of avoidance can lead to isolation and a decrease in self-esteem.

4. Changes in Academic Performance or Focus

A decline in school performance doesn’t always mean laziness or lack of motivation, it can be a symptom of anxiety. Teens with anxiety may struggle to concentrate, stay organized, or retain information.

Watch out for:

• Drop in grades or missing assignments
• Procrastination or perfectionism that interferes with their progress
• Trouble focusing in class or doing homework
• Overreacting to minor academic setbacks

Anxiety makes it nearly impossible to concentrate when the mind is in a constant state of “what if?”

5. Irritability and Emotional Outbursts

While anxiety is often associated with nervousness or fear, it can also present as irritation or even anger, especially in teenagers. They may not always have the emotional language or coping tools to express their turmoil, so it comes out in more reactive ways.

Emotional signs may include:

• Snapping at family or friends
• Easily frustrated by small problems
• Crying unexpectedly or becoming suddenly overwhelmed
• Mood swings that seem out of proportion to the situation

Emotional outbursts like this are not a sign of defiance, it’s a sign of internal distress.

6. Restlessness and Compulsive Behaviors

Some teens show their anxiety through constant motion or repetitive behaviors aimed at managing their discomfort. These may not always be obvious, but they’re worth paying attention to.

Behaviors may include:

• Nail-biting, skin-picking, or hair-twirling
• Pacing, fighting, or frequent restroom visits
• Repetitive checking, whether to make sure their doors are locked or that things are perfect
• Over-planning or following rigid routines

These actions are attempts to create a sense of control in their world that feels chaotic.

Don’t Wait—Get Support Today

If you notice these anxiety signs in your teen, teen counseling may be an invaluable resource. Reach out to one of our mental health therapists to help your child navigate through their anxiety and come out on top!