Navigating the teenage years can be challenging even under the best of circumstances, but for those facing social anxiety, it can be downright paralyzing. Social anxiety in teens can keep them from participating in activities they enjoy, making friends, and going to school.
The good news is that social anxiety is treatable. If you think your teen may be struggling with social anxiety, there are some signs to look out for. Treatment programs for teens that take into account their unique needs can help them overcome social anxiety and lead more fulfilling lives.
What Is Social Anxiety?
Most people feel nervous in social situations from time to time. For teens with social anxiety, however, these feelings are much more intense. Teens with social anxiety may worry for days or weeks before an event, have trouble sleeping, and avoid social situations altogether.
In some cases, social anxiety can be so severe that it interferes with school, work, and other activities. Teens with social anxiety may have trouble making friends, participating in class, or going to parties or other social gatherings.
What Causes Social Anxiety?
There is no single cause of social anxiety. It may be caused by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Teens who have a family member with social anxiety or another anxiety disorder may be more likely to develop social anxiety themselves.
Certain life experiences may also contribute to social anxiety. Teens who have been bullied or who have experienced other forms of trauma may be more likely to develop social anxiety.
What Are the Signs of Social Anxiety?
Teens with social anxiety may:
- Experience intense fear in social situations
- Avoid social situations altogether
- Have trouble making friends
- Experience physical symptoms such as sweating, racing heart, or shaking
- Feel like they are being judged by others
- Worry for days or weeks before an event
If you’ve noticed these signs in your teen, it’s important to seek help. Social anxiety can be treated with a combination of medication and therapy. Lasting change is possible with the right treatment plan.
Teen Social Anxiety Treatment
Every teen is unique, so treatment for social anxiety will be tailored to the individual. It’s important to find a therapist who specializes in treating anxiety disorders in teens.
A few of the most common treatment options for social anxiety in teens include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy: This type of therapy can help teens identify and change negative thinking patterns that contribute to anxiety.
- Dialectical behavior therapy: This type of therapy can help teens develop coping skills and manage emotions.
- Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of social anxiety.
- Support groups: Teens may find support and encouragement from peers who are facing similar challenges.
- Every aspect of teen social anxiety treatment should be designed to meet the unique needs of the individual. With the right help, your teen can manage social anxiety and live a full and satisfying life.
If you think your teen may be struggling with social anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. A mental health professional can assess your teen’s symptoms and develop a treatment plan.
Targeted Support for Social Anxiety at Imagine Spokane
If you are a parent of a teen with social anxiety, we understand how difficult it can be to watch your child suffer. At Imagine Spokane, we offer targeted support for social anxiety in teens. We specialize in helping teens overcome anxiety and live happier, more fulfilling lives.
We offer a variety of treatment options to help the teens in our care build healthy coping skills. Contact our team at 888.384.3143 today if you’re ready to learn more.