Teen Stress & Anxiety Is on the Rise: Here's What Parents Need to Know! by Kelli Porcaro

Teen stress and anxiety is growing and continues to be on the rise. According to the American Psychological Association, teens (ages 13-17) are reporting greater levels of stress compared to adults (18 and up). On a 10-point scale: 

• Teens experience an average stress level of 5.8 during the school year.
• Teens experience an average stress level of 4.6 during the summer.
• Adults experience an average stress level of 5.1.

In addition: 

• 83 percent of teens indicated that school was a common source of stress 
• 31 percent of teens indicated that their stress level was greater than the prior year
• 54 percent of teens think their stress level has a slight to no impact on their body or physical health 
• 52 percent of teens think their stress level has a slight to no impact on their mental health 
• 59 percent of teens are uncertain about the effectiveness of their stress management techniques

Teens need to learn how to intentionally respond to the feelings of stress in a way that helps them feel productive, connected, balanced and satisfied. 

Learn more about teens and stress.