Anxiety is a common experience that many young people encounter during their teenage years. It’s that knot in your stomach before a big test, the worry about fitting in with your classmates, or the fear of the big unknown future. While it’s normal to feel anxious from time to time, managing anxiety effectively is important for maintaining mental well-being and enjoying life to the fullest.

What Exactly is Anxiety?

It’s more than just feeling nervous or stressed — anxiety is a persistent feeling of fear or worry that can interfere with your daily life and relationships. You might notice the physical symptoms, like a racing heartbeat, sweating, trembling, or feeling dizzy. It can also come up as emotional symptoms, such as having trouble concentrating and feeling irritable or very restless. 

Here are some of the common triggers for anxiety:

  • School pressure, like exams, presentations, and high expectations about performances
  • Social situations, because meeting new people, facing peer pressure, or feeling judged can lead to feelings of anxiety! 
  • Family relationships, where changes in family life (like divorce), conflict, or parental expectations can add a lot of stress to your daily life
  • Uncertainty about the future, like concerns about your future career paths, university choices, or your future life in general can be very overwhelming

How Can I Cope with Anxiety?

Managing anxiety involves learning strategies to handle stressful situations and reduce its impact on your daily life. Here are some tips:

  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation can help calm your mind and body during stressful moments.
  • Stay Active: Regular physical activity, such as jogging, dancing, or yoga, can release tension and improve mood.
  • Set Realistic Goals: Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate achievements along the way.
  • Talk About Your Feelings: Share your thoughts and feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or counsellor who can provide support and perspective.
  • Limit Stressors: Identify and minimise sources of stress where possible, such as reducing screen time or prioritising self-care activities!
  • Seek Professional Help: If anxiety is leading to serious impacts on your daily life despite efforts to manage it, consider seeking guidance from a mental health professional who can offer specialised support and treatment options.

What Else Can I Try?

One keyword – resilience. It’s the ability to bounce back from hard times, and it plays a big role in managing anxiety. Here are three tips to help build resilience:

  1. Grow Problem-Solving Skills: Learn to approach challenges with a positive mindset and consider different solutions.
  2. Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with friends, family, and mentors who provide encouragement!
  3. Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and recognise that it’s okay to make mistakes or feel anxious at times.

Remember, you are not alone in experiencing anxiety, and it’s okay to seek help when needed. Use these tips and strategies to navigate challenges more effectively. And reach out to trusted individuals when you need support! You deserve to thrive, and taking these proactive steps is a powerful choice in your journey toward a brighter future.