School, sports, social pressure…today’s teens are under a lot of stress. Here’s how we can help.
The teenage years have always been challenging, but today's teens are facing a whole new level of pressure. Between packed schedules, academic expectations, and the ever-present influence of social media, many adolescents feel like they are constantly falling behind or never good enough.
Here's a closer look at what's driving anxiety in teens today:
Academic Pressure
From honors classes to AP tests to college applications and performance-based extracurriculars, many teens feel like their worth is tied to achievement. One study found that 61% of teens feel a lot of pressure to get good grades, and chronic academic stress has been linked to increased symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Social Media and Constant Comparison
Social platforms can keep teens connected, but also constantly comparing. Whether it's associated with body image, lifestyle, or popularity, studies show that frequent social media use is correlated with higher rates of anxiety and poor self-esteem in adolescents. The pressure to curate a perfect life online is exhausting and emotionally draining.
Fear of Failure and Perfectionism
Many teens are terrified of making mistakes. Perfectionism is on the rise among adolescents, and it's been linked to increased levels of anxiety, depression, and burnout. When success feels like the only option, even small setbacks can feel overwhelming.
Over-scheduling and Lack of Downtime
Between school, sports, clubs, and family obligations, today's teens often have little time to rest. Constant busyness may seem productive, but it leaves little room for emotional processing or recovery. Without time to slow down, stress accumulates, and coping skills don't have space to develop.
So, how can we help?
At Evolve Wellness, our Adolescent Anxiety Group is designed to meet teens where they are -- with empathy, insight, and real tools to help.
Led by Megan Miller, LGPC, a licensed mental health therapist and certified yoga instructor, this bi-weekly group combines therapeutic discussion with somatic-based practices to help teens better understand their emotions, build resilience, and regulate stress.
Whether your teen is feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or simply needs a safe space to connect with others who "get it," this group can help them feel less alone and more empowered.
Our Adolescent Anxiety group begins on September 3rd and meets every other Wednesday at 6 PM. This group is eligible for full or partial coverage by CareFirst Insurance, and Evolve members as well as current therapy, emotion coaching, or executive function coaching clients receive additional discounts. To learn more, visit our website or call our office at (410)989-2034.