Why anxiety disorder in teens is on the rise

Anxiety disorder in teens is on the rise and several factors are to be noted. In today’s overwhelming social media pressure, constant need to be communicative, global uncertainty, societal pressure and several other factors are main contributors to teen anxiety. Here, let’s take a look at what is causing the rise in anxiety disorder in teens.

A study report with National Library of Sciences state that the COVID‐19 pandemic has resulted in considerable research regarding the impact of the pandemic and resulting social isolation on adolescent mental health. Online education has given rise to increased workloads, competition to get into the best college and the pressure to excel in studies and extracurricular activities add to the stress.

According to World Health Organisation study, globally, one in seven of 10–19-year-olds experience mental health conditions, but they remain largely unrecognised and untreated. A 2023 Pew Research Center survey found that 95% of teens aged 13–17 have smartphones and 96% are on the internet daily. The constant comparison online, cyberbullying, unrealistic beauty standards and FOMO (fear of missing out) majorly contribute to rise in anxiety and it often leads to low self-esteem.

In most cases, the equation in family also is a major cause to rise in anxiety disorder. Quality of home life and relationships with family members add to this. A 2020 study in National Institute of Health found that children who received consistent care and support from extended family members had lower levels of anxiety and depression compared to those who did not. With modern, nuclear families grappling to balance work and family life, children often feel the absence of care, warmth and communication.

Teens, in their growing up years are not able to handle their emotional reactions and face behavioral challenges. It gives rise to their internal stress. It is estimated that anxiety disorder is found in 4.1% of 10–14-year-olds and 5.3% of 15–19-year-olds experience an anxiety disorder. Depression, which is also share similar symptom as anxiety disorder is estimated to occur among 1.3% of adolescents aged 10–14 years, and 3.4% of 15–19-year-olds.