The minds and bodies of teenagers are still developing and experiencing excessive anxiety has the potential to become anticipatory anxiety or an anxiety disorder. The first step to understanding the anxiety and getting treatment is to see a medical professional, such as your local General Practitioner (GP) doctor.

The doctor will discuss your symptoms and feelings with you to diagnose the cause and the intensity of the anxiety. Depending on the severity of the anxiety a number of treatments may be suggested to be started either individually or in complement. These may include:
 Self-help or management techniques
 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or “Talking Therapies”
 Anti-Anxiety Medications
 Complementary Therapies

Self-help or management techniques
When lifestyle factors, such as alcohol or nicotine intake or not enough sleep, contribute to feelings of anxiety, then simple lifestyle changes can help to reduce the levels of anxiety being experienced. Some teens love to eat junk food, others engage in binge and purge eating to feel more accepted in appearance. By having regular exercise and learning healthy eating habits, teens can also adapt their lifestyles in a way that manages their anxiety.

Sometimes teens need to talk without feeling fear of judgement or rejection. Talking with a professional or loving family member can help teens flesh out their feelings and understand how to reduce their anxiety.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) or “Talking Therapies”
Usually a GP refers the teenager for counselling if they are experiencing excessive anxiety. Not all respond positively to talking with counsellors. Some feel distrust for the counsellor and cannot open up to discuss feelings.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), although an option, is a short term treatment that promotes positive self-talk and mind imagery. The teen learns to challenge their negative thinking and behaviour for a healthier outcome. CBT can assist teens to learn self-help and management techniques.

Anti-Anxiety Medications
GP’s prescribe anti-anxiety medications, such as Clonazepam (Klonopin in the US), in severe cases of teenage anxiety. The teen and their parents need to take advice before making this decision. Certain anxiety reducing medications can cause depression or moodiness, and some risk addiction. Sometimes a trial of medications is necessary to find the right one. Taking anti-anxiety medications can prevent anxiety becoming chronic or teen suicide.

Complementary therapies
Meditation and relaxations therapies, such as tai chi or yoga, can help to relax teenagers and give them positive feelings of wellbeing. Complementary therapies may be used with other treatments, such as CBT and/or anti-anxiety medications.