It’s easy to forget how overwhelming adolescence can feel, particularly when you're an adult reflecting on your teenage years. Young people today face a barrage of challenges as they navigate their way through self-discovery, independence, and planning for the future. Alongside these challenges, many experience heightened anxiety, often manifesting as what we refer to as "teenage angst." Understanding this complex mix of emotions and creating an environment of support is key to helping young people manage their anxiety and develop resilience.

Young people today face immense pressure from a variety of sources—school, friendships, family expectations, and the pervasive influence of social media. They are figuring out who they are, what they believe in, and how to take on increasing independence, all while worrying about the future. It’s no wonder anxiety levels among young people are rising.

Anxiety is not limited to specific triggers like exams or social events. It can also present as a persistent worry or fear about what might happen in the future—the constant barrage of “what ifs.” *What if I fail? What if I don’t fit in? What if I don’t succeed? These thoughts can become overwhelming and feel impossible to escape.

Anxiety can manifest in various ways—racing thoughts, a feeling of tightness in the chest, a pounding heart, or physical sensations like sweating or shaking. These are all signs that the body is responding to perceived danger, even when there might not be an immediate or obvious threat.

So, how can we help?

Creating an Environment of Psychological Safety

One of the most important things we can do to support young people through anxiety is to create an environment of psychological safety. This means encouraging open, non-judgemental conversations where they feel comfortable sharing their fears and concerns. Being a supportive listener can make all the difference.

The Power of Compassion: Empathy and Action

Compassion is more than just understanding another’s pain—it's empathy paired with action. Supporting a young person through anxiety means showing them that you care, not just in words but in actions.

Start with the little things. Be curious about their day, ask open questions, and genuinely listen. Sometimes, they might want to talk about their anxiety; other times, they might need a distraction. Whether it’s offering to go for a walk, sitting down with a cup of tea, or simply being there quietly, these small gestures show that you care.

By ‘caring out loud’—expressing curiosity and concern—you let them know that they’re not alone. Even if they don’t always take you up on offers to talk, they’ll remember that you’re there when they need you.

Walking With Them Through Their Challenges

The concept of "walking with" someone who is experiencing anxiety is key. It’s about being alongside them, offering support without necessarily trying to solve the problem or protect them from every challenge. As adults, we might instinctively want to remove any discomfort, but young people need to develop their own coping mechanisms too.

Encouraging resilience doesn’t mean leaving them to figure it out alone. Instead, it’s about helping them learn how to navigate their emotions, reassuring them that what they’re feeling is valid but also manageable. Even in their most anxious moments, they should know they don’t have to face their fears alone.

Anxiety is a natural part of life, especially during adolescence, when so much seems uncertain. As adults, whether we are parents/carers, teachers, or mentors, the best way to support young people is to create safe spaces for them to express their feelings. By offering empathy, compassion, and consistent care, we help them navigate their anxieties and empower them to face challenges with resilience.