And what can we do to minimise symptoms in our kids today?
Teens and tweens today are facing anxiety levels like never before. Since the 2010s, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of teens experiencing anxiety, and this trend has worried parents, educators, and mental health professionals alike. But what exactly is causing this spike? Let’s delve into the issue and understand what’s happening to our teenagers.
The Alarming Statistics
According to statistics from the book The Anxious Generation, anxiety disorders among teenagers have seen a significant rise since the early 2010s. Research shows that the percentage of teenagers who reported feeling “overwhelmed” by all they had to do jumped from 18% in 1985 to 41% in 2016. Even more concerning is that the rates of anxiety disorders in teens have increased by 20% from 2012 to 2018.
Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and co-author of The Coddling of the American Mind, has highlighted this alarming trend. Haidt points out that the rise in anxiety among teens coincides with the advent of social media and the widespread use of smartphones. He argues that these technologies, while beneficial in many ways, have also introduced new pressures and stressors that contribute to increased anxiety levels.
Social Media and Smartphones
One of the major factors linked to the rise in teen anxiety is the explosion of social media and smartphone use. Social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok became widely popular in the early 2010s, and with them came a new set of challenges for teenagers. These platforms, especially with the addition of the forward facing camera and the ‘like’ button, encourage constant comparison and competition, making many teens feel inadequate about their looks, social status, and lifestyle.
Haidt explains that social media amplifies the normal teenage concerns about fitting in and being accepted. When teens see their friends’ seemingly perfect lives online, they often feel like they’re not measuring up. This constant exposure to curated and often unrealistic images can erode self-esteem and increase anxiety. Moreover, the pressure to maintain an online presence and keep up with trends can be overwhelming.
Another concern around high device usage is about the skills that teenagers are not developing due to the high amount of time they spend on screens. With so much of their day dedicated to social media and digital interactions, many teenagers are missing out on essential face-to-face communication skills. This lack of real-world social interaction can lead to difficulties in developing empathy, interpreting social cues, and building deep, meaningful relationships. Additionally, excessive screen time often displaces other valuable activities such as outdoor play, reading, and engaging in hobbies, all of which are crucial for cognitive and emotional development. As a result, many teenagers struggle with problem-solving, creativity, and resilience – skills that are vital for navigating the complexities of adult life.
Academic Pressure
Another significant factor contributing to increased anxiety is academic pressure. Over the past decade, there has been a growing emphasis on academic achievement and getting into top universities. The competition is fierce, and many teens feel the weight of expectations from their parents, teachers, and themselves.
The pressure to perform well academically, participate in extracurricular activities, and build a resume for college applications can be too much for many teenagers. This constant push to succeed can lead to chronic stress and anxiety, as teens struggle to meet high expectations and fear failure.
Family and Social Dynamics
Changes in family and social dynamics have also played a role. The 2010s saw an increase in single-parent households and families dealing with economic stress. These factors can create an unstable environment for teenagers, who may feel additional pressure to support their families or navigate complex family relationships.
Moreover, the rise of helicopter parenting, where parents are overly involved in their children’s lives, can prevent teens from developing essential coping skills. Haidt notes that overprotective parenting can lead to increased anxiety, as teenagers may not learn how to handle challenges and setbacks on their own.
Mental Health Awareness
Interestingly, another contributor to the rise in reported anxiety could be increased awareness and thorough diagnosis of mental health issues. Over the past decade, there has been a growing recognition of mental health problems, and more teenagers are seeking help and talking about their struggles. This openness is positive, but it also means that anxiety disorders that might have gone unnoticed or unreported in the past are now being documented.
What Can Be Done?
You can put into place some easy strategies now that can help reduce anxiety symptoms for the future. Here are 4 that can help:
- Encouraging teenagers to take breaks from social media and to understand that what they see online is not always a true reflection of reality can help reduce anxiety. Parents and educators can play a role by modelling balanced social media use and having open conversations about its impact.
- Schools and parents can work together to create a more balanced approach to academics. This could involve reducing the emphasis on grades and college acceptance, promoting a broader definition of success, and encouraging activities that foster creativity and relaxation.
- Parents can support their teenagers by providing a stable and loving environment, while also encouraging independence. Allowing teenagers to face challenges and learn from their mistakes can build resilience and reduce anxiety.
- Regular physical activity, proper sleep, and a healthy diet can significantly impact mental health. Encouraging teenagers to engage in sports, outdoor activities, and hobbies can help them manage stress and anxiety.
The rise in anxiety among teenagers since the 2010s is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. Social media, academic pressure, family dynamics, and increased awareness all play a role. By understanding these factors and implementing supportive strategies, we can help our teenagers navigate this challenging time and reduce the burden of anxiety. As Jonathan Haidt suggests, fostering resilience and healthy coping mechanisms is key to helping teens thrive in a rapidly changing world.