Teen Anxiety
and the Impact of Bullying

Teen anxiety is a growing problem for many parents. Bullying in the schools and over cyber space is increasing at an alarming rate.  If your teen suffers from anxiety, the added possibility of becoming a victim of bullying attacks can be overwhelming. Teens suffering with anxiety also tend to have lower resiliency in handling stressful situations such as bullying. While many people with anxiety spend a lot of time and energy worrying about what might, or might not, happen in the future, those suffering from bullying attacks may feel they no longer can handle the future.

The anxiety symptoms include feelings of stress and overly worrying about things in general.  Occasional anxiety is a common occurrence for many.  But if these feelings seem to increase and overwhelm you teen--if this excessive worrying lasts over 6 months, your teen may be developing an anxiety stress disorder.  Outside treatment may be in order. If your teen becomes a victim of bullying, then the anxiety condition is compounded.  Because teen anxiety is often associated with teen depression, it is imperative that parents address this before the condition escalates to thoughts of suicide.

Studies also have shown that for many experiencing teen anxiety may turn to alcohol or drugs for relief. Parents need to be proactive and find treatment opportunities if this becomes evident with a teen--before indulging in alcohol or drugs brings about negative results.  If you find that alcohol is a problem for your teen, research the many organizations that can help.  Many are set in private locations with experienced staff and located in serene settings like these in South Carolina.  Being proactive is essential for parents to successfully help their teens.

Parents Can Help

Being a victim of bullying may be difficult for them to discuss. As a parent, listening first and considering their difficulties will go a long way to gaining a comfort level for them to be open and honest.  Check for warning signs of their teen anxiety and offer opportunities for them to seek outside counseling of they feel that a outside perspective would be helpful. Offer loving, non-judgmental support and assist them any way they fell comfortable.

Many teens worry about friends’ acceptance, clothes trends, and academic success, but talk to your teen and make certain that bullying is not the cause. If the anxiety is larger than the daily school commitments and friend associations, take time to dig deeper.

Below are articles from our website that address how to handle bullying and peer pressure. These references are listed below and include resources for your use.

School Bullying: A Case Study

Cyberbullying: How Parent Can Help

Peer Pressure Increases Stress in Teens

Social Networking Can Cause Stress in Teens!

Dealing with the In Crowd

Resources for Teen Anxiety

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No parent wants to face the situation that occurs in this video.  This teenager is the victim of bullying and found that she could no longer handle the situation.  Her conclusion was that death was the best answer.  She was 16 years old. Bullying is not acceptable.  Ever.

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