5 Signs Your Teen May Be Struggling With Anxiety

SherryB Psychology
Aug 10
2 min read

(By SherryB Psychology – Supporting Families in Brisbane, Cooloola Coast & Across Queensland).

Teenagers struggling with anxiety — Is your Teenager struggling with Anxiety

Being a parent to a teenager can be both rewarding and challenging. Adolescence is a time of huge emotional, physical, and social change, and it’s not unusual for teens to experience occasional mood swings or stress. But when worry, fear, or avoidance start affecting daily life, it could be a sign that your teen is experiencing anxiety.

At SherryB Psychology, I work closely with parents and teens, both in-person in Brisbane, Cooloola Coast and via telehealth across Queensland, to help families recognise the early signs and take supportive steps forward.

Below are five common signs your teen may be struggling with anxiety, and what you can do to help.

1. Changes in Sleep or Appetite

Anxiety can disrupt your teen’s sleep patterns they may have trouble falling asleep, wake often during the night, or find it hard to get up for school. Appetite changes can also occur, with some teens eating far less than usual and others turning to comfort eating.

2. Avoiding School or Social Activities

If your once social teen now prefers to stay home, skips school, or avoids activities they used to enjoy, it might be more than “just a phase.” Social anxiety, bullying, academic pressure, or fear of failure can all play a role.

3. Physical Complaints Without a Clear Medical Cause

Headaches, stomach aches, muscle tension, or feeling unwell before school can sometimes be linked to anxiety. These physical symptoms are the body’s way of signalling emotional distress.

4. Irritability or Emotional Outbursts

While some moodiness is normal in adolescence, anxiety can cause heightened irritability, frustration, or emotional outbursts. Your teen might react strongly to small setbacks or become tearful over seemingly minor issues.

5. Decline in Academic Performance or Concentration

Anxiety can make it hard for teens to focus, remember information, or complete assignments on time. If teachers notice changes in your teen’s engagement or performance, it’s worth exploring whether anxiety might be a factor.

What You Can Do as a Parent

Open the conversation: Let your teen know you’ve noticed changes and that you’re there to listen without judgment.
Seek professional help early: Early support can prevent anxiety from becoming overwhelming.
Normalise help-seeking: Reassure your teen that therapy is a safe, supportive space to explore what’s going on.

At SherryB Psychology, I offer Teen & Child Therapy designed to help young people understand their feelings, develop coping skills, and build resilience. Whether in-person or via telehealth, sessions are tailored to each teen’s needs and delivered in a safe, non-judgmental environment.