It’s normal for teens to feel anxious before a big test, a critical game, a musical performance, or a social event. But if their worries start to interfere with daily life (affecting their sleep, concentration in classes, or interactions with friends), they might need extra support.
Today’s teens are facing many of the same challenges as their parents did: academic competition, the pressures of dating, and balancing their healthy desire for independence with their continued reliance on their parents. But all of this is being amplified through social media, and their constant connection to world events and to idealized images of other teens lives and bodies. Anxiety is one of the most common concerns that leads Portland parents to seek therapy for their teens at the Children’s Program.
What Teen Anxiety Looks Like
Anxious teens don’t always appear “neurotic” or worried. Here are some other common symptoms of anxiety in adolescents:
- Irritability or perfectionism
- Avoidance of school or activities, especially hobbies they used to find fun
- Restlessness, stomachaches, or headaches
- Withdrawal from friends or family
Because teenagers are still learning to understand their emotions and express them verbally, their anxiety can show up through behavior rather than words. A teen who seems unmotivated or distracted may actually be feeling overwhelmed.
Why Teens Experience Anxiety
A blend of neurochemistry, temperament, and life experience contributes to anxiety. Some teens are naturally more sensitive to stress; others develop anxiety after major life changes, trauma, or through pressure to perform. During adolescence, the brain is still developing key areas that regulate emotion and decision-making. This results in the classic “big teen feelings,” which they need the tools to understand and express.
How Parents Can Help
One of the most powerful ways parents can support their teen is by listening without judgment. Validate what your teen is feeling instead of trying to fix it immediately. Parents can show empathy and build trust with phrases like:
“That sounds really stressful.”
“I can see why you’d feel that way.”
Encourage balance: consistent sleep, regular meals, physical activity, and downtime away from screens. And remember—teens take emotional cues from you. When you model calm coping strategies, you’re showing them that anxiety can be managed.
When to Seek Professional Support
If anxiety begins to have a negative impact on your teen’s academics, friendships, or daily routines, professional help can make a real difference. At the Children’s Program in Portland, we have clinicians who help teens learn about anxiety, develop evidence-based coping skills, and build confidence in their ability to handle stress. Our approach draws on research-backed methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based techniques, helping teens reduce anxiety and strengthen resilience over time.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
Teen anxiety is common—and treatable. With compassionate support, your teen can learn to manage anxiety and feel more capable and connected.
If your teen is struggling with anxiety, Oregon’s Children’s Program is here to help.
If you or your teen would like to take the next step toward calm, confidence, and well-being, fill out an intake request to get started. Our clinicians offer treatment in-person at our Portland clinic, and via telehealth to clients throughout Oregon.
