Experiencing anxiety is normal and not always negative. Sometimes when we’re under pressure, anxiety can actually help motivate use. But when it becomes persistent, overwhelming and feels uncontrollable, you may be struggling with an anxiety disorder. With anxiety disorders, symptoms do not easily go away and often worsen over time.

Some common symptoms you may experience with an anxiety disorder:

• Constantly feeling tense, worried or on edge
• Anxiety is interfering with school, family and friends
• Avoiding places and activities to lessen anxiety
• Always expecting the worst
• Trouble focusing

Some common physical symptoms include:

• Trouble breathing
• Sweating
• Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
• Shaking or trembling
• Nausea

The good news is that there are things you can do, many which are very simple, to help relieve anxiety. Check out our Skills and Strategies page to learn some basic techniques to lessen anxiety.

If you are unable to manage your anxiety on your own, you can reach out to a trusted adult for help. Some examples of a trusted adult are a parent, relative, teacher, counselor, doctor or therapist. A trusted adult can help you take the steps to begin to feel in control again.

For additional mental health resources, visit our Resources page.

For more in-depth information about Generalized Anxiety Disorder, visit TeenMentalHealth.org.

Source: HelpGuilde, Anxiety and Depression Association of America and TeenMentalHealth.org.