Anxiety and Depression in Adolescence: 7 Important Ways Caregivers Can Support an Adolescent

Introduction

Navigating adolescence is challenging, especially for those who are struggling with depression and anxiety. Caregivers play an important role in supporting and providing guidance through this crucial developmental phase.

Anxiety and Depression in Adolescence

Adolescence is characterised by tremendous changes in the human body, such as in weight, body shape and others which can impact the sense of identity, self-perception and self-esteem. Unique situations/ circumstances coupled with these intrinsic changes generally create anxiety and even depression in adolescence. These are common challenges in this age group and can be typically identified with feelings of restlessness or irritability and depression is characterised by low life condition and low mood.

Anxiety, as defined by the American Psychological Association (APA), “is characterised by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes”. Depression, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), is marked by “a persistent low mood or loss of interest in activities that were once pleasurable for an extended period”.

Brynhildur, Lise, Ragnhild & others, in their study state that “both anxiety and depression in adolescence are associated with functional impairment and can affect academic achievement, which may have a lifelong effect on employment. According to WHO’s, Global Burden of Disease, the leading cause of years lost due to disability (10-24 years) in both genders 10-24 years is unipolar depressive disorders”.

Further, McLaughlin and King’s (2015) research demonstrates that anxiety disorders are common in teenagers, impacting over 25% of those between the ages of 13 and 18. Approximately 13% of teenagers experience depression, which causes persistent melancholy and a withdrawal from previously loved activities.

The serious consequences of anxiety and depression in adolescence highlight the need for efficient interventions. However, the caregivers including educators, engaged in providing care-giving to such adolescents need to comprehend the above and be equipped with a thorough understanding of the challenges, identification and intervention about the challenges.    

Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression in Adolescence

Common anxiety symptoms include feeling nervous, restless or generally tensed and these hinder their daily activities and tasks. Typical symptoms of anxiety include,  sweating or racing heartbeat, avoidance of social situations, and inability to focus, on the other hand, extreme sadness or irritability are typical indicators of depression. Other symptoms include decreased interest in once-enjoyed activities; changes in eating or sleeping patterns; feelings of guilt and suicidal thoughts. 

Due to the inability of the individual to cope with themselves, there is a felt need to raise awareness about the typical signs/ symptoms on a wider scale. Cohen & Wills, 1985, in their Social Support Theory posit social support directly affects psychological distress by acting as a protective factor. Such efforts can facilitate swift action on the part of the caregivers, who could support suffering adolescents and help them on the road to recovery for their mental well-being.

Causes of Anxiety and Depression in Adolescence

Let’s begin with understanding the key reasons about how these mental health issues arise and further, act as a hindrance in young people at this developmental stage. Some of the critical factors are listed below:

Biological Factors:

• Family History of anxiety or depression
• Hormonal imbalances 
• Changes in the body’s chemical messengers  

Environmental Factors:

• Stress which could be created due to academics 
• Constant exposure to domestic conflicts within the family
• Traumatic events such as physical/emotional abuse or the passing of a loved one

Psychological Factors:

• Lack of faith in oneself 
• Extreme self-criticism
• Negative Thinking & associated patterns 

Social Factors:

• Peer Pressure & Societal norms
• Bullying and Harassment 
• Social isolation 

Caregiver Support for an Adolescent Struggling with Anxiety or Depression

1. Create a safe space by being present at the moment with the individual & avoid passing judgment while you listen.
2. Encourage open & clear communication with individuals to build rapport and trust.
3. Consistent comfort and validation to individuals whenever they’re in need. 
4. Focus on overall well-being to establish sleep, nutrition, and exercise routines.
5. Encourage them to participate in the things they enjoy by creating that space for them.

Treatment of Anxiety and Depression in Adolescence

Any form of treatment is distinctive to the individual and developed to respond to the specific needs of that individual. Likewise for adolescents suffering from depression and anxiety, while a specific plan is developed for each individual, the efforts of professionals are directed towards diminishing the symptoms and helping in overall well-being and mood elevation. This can be achieved by one or a combination of the following:

1. Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): It includes skill-building and working on coping techniques. This allows the individual to start with identifying followed by changing the thoughts and behaviours that contribute to depressive or anxious feelings. 
2. Art Therapy: It encourages individuals to use different modalities such as visual representation, movement, music etc for their emotional outlet. It fosters self-reflection, self-esteem & communication skills while incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
3. Medication: In some cases, depending upon the severity, Psychiatrists may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to ease symptoms along with regular therapy sessions for complex cases. Such treatments help in re-establishing the normal balance of chemicals in the brain.  
4. Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular exercise, encouraging eating well and making sure one gets enough sleep promotes the overall well-being of an individual. 
5. Support Groups: Few individuals benefit from support groups as they give teenagers to share experiences & learn healthier coping methods from others facing similar challenges.

Conclusion

In conclusion, being there for a teenager who is experiencing anxiety or depression calls for compassion, patience, and unconditional support. 

By creating a supportive environment, we are not only educating but also opening a path of open communication. In a few cases, caregivers can help them in seeking professional help when necessary to get through these challenges and emerge stronger.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Reaching out for help & seeking advice from mental health professionals isn’t a sign of weakness but a step away from knowing yourself a little better. By working together, we can make sure that teenagers have the support and guidance they require to flourish in life.

References

Villarroel, M. A., & Terlizzi, E. P. (2020). Symptoms of depression among adults: United States, 2019.

What causes depression? (2022, January 10). Harvard Health.https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/what-causes-depression

Beesdo, K., Knappe, S., & Pine, D. S. (2009). Anxiety and anxiety disorders in children and adolescents: developmental issues and implications for DSM-V. The Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 32(3), 483–524. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psc.2009.06.002

Pettitt, R. M., Brown, E. A., Delashmitt, J. C., & Pizzo, M. N. (2022). The Management of Anxiety and Depression in Pediatrics. Cureus, 14(10), e30231. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.30231

Zhang, B., Wang, J., & binti Abdullah, A. (2024). The effects of art therapy interventions on anxiety in children and adolescents: A meta-analysis. Clinics, 79, 100404.

Axelsdóttir, B., Eidet, L. M., Thoner, R., Biedilæ, S., Borren, I., Elvsåshagen, M., … & Dahlgren, A. (2022). Research in child and adolescent anxiety and depression: Treatment uncertainties prioritised by youth and professionals. F1000Research, 10, 1221.

Fitzpatrick, M. M., Anderson, A. M., Browning, C., & Ford, J. L. (2024). Relationship Between Family and Friend Support and Psychological Distress in Adolescents. Journal of Pediatric Health Care, 38(6), 804-811.