How to talk to an anxious teenager
In the anxious moment
- Slow down your own voice and breathing; your calm is contagious.
- Name it: "It looks like this feels really big right now."
- Don't argue with the worry; acknowledge it, then help them ground themselves.
- Save problem-solving for later, when they are calmer.
What to avoid
- "There's nothing to worry about" - it can make them feel misunderstood.
- Removing every challenge: avoidance brings short-term relief but can make anxiety grow.
- Asking repeatedly whether they are OK, which can keep the worry in focus.
Helping over time
Break feared situations into small, manageable steps and praise effort rather than outcome. Keep routines for sleep, food and movement steady. Let the school know, so they can support the same approach.
When to get help
Talk to your family doctor or paediatrician if anxiety lasts for weeks, keeps your teenager from school or friends, affects sleep or eating, or comes with panic attacks or talk of self-harm.
For parents
NOTICE parent workshop
Two live 2-hour online sessions (4 hours total, €79.00 EUR) that help parents recognise early signs and practise the conversations that keep teenagers talking.
Book the NOTICE workshop