Teenage Stress and Self Help for Anxiety and Depression

There are many reasons for teenagers' susceptibility to the symptoms and consequences of negative stress, anxiety and depression. One simple reason is biological - the chemical changes taking place in their bodies as a result of puberty can contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression. Along these same lines, their knowledge of the changes happening to them can confuse teens as they try to "find their place in the world." Ultimately, the introduction of some basic stress management skills can prove to be an effective self help for anxiety and depression for teenagers.

In theory, as adults we have past experiences in a wide range of situations that allows us to face stressful events creatively. Also, having "survived" the many trials and tribulations of life, adults are able to put the relative importance of events into a perspective that teenagers cannot; as adults we know that life will go on, but to a teen, something as trivial as not being invited to a party can take on life-shattering proportions.

One of the best things you can do for a teenager dealing with stress, anxiety, and depression is to help them to put events into their proper perspective. Since they may not have the experiences to formulate a realistic perspective of their own, try giving them the benefit of your experiences and the lessons they have taught you. Share stories of events that were traumatic to you at the time, but that worked out well in the end. By sharing in this way you give teens "anchors" they can fall back on when dealing with unfamiliar, frightening and stressful situations.

Also, it is very important that you intervene on behalf of teens if you find them isolating themselves. One of the best cures for anxiety and depression is positive activity and interaction with others. Be cognizant of the people that teens are spending their time with as teens are very susceptible to peer pressure. Expose teens to wholesome activities and encourage them to participate.

Other than that, the same stress management techniques that work for adults work for teenagers: humor, exercise, breathing exercise, yoga, meditation just about anything that takes the mind off of problems and allows them to relax. Teenage stress is susceptible to the benefits of self help for anxiety and depression. Teenagers may need a bit more guidance from their adult role models along the way, but there is no reason why they cannot learn to effectively manage their stress, anxiety and depression symptoms effectively.