How To Talk Teen Through Anxiety Attack?

Navigating the Storm: A Guide to Supporting Teens Through Anxiety Attacks

In the rollercoaster ride that is adolescence, where every turn can feel like a new adventure or a terrifying drop, it’s not uncommon for teens to experience anxiety attacks. Amidst the whirlwind of hormones, social pressures, and academic challenges, anxiety can rear its ugly head, leaving both teens and their caretakers perplexed on how to handle it. Knowing just how to talk a teen through an anxiety attack can feel like trying to crack an enigmatic code. Yet, with a spoonful of patience, a dash of understanding, and the right approach, guiding a teen through these turbulent times can foster resilience and deepen mutual trust.

The Do’s and Dont’s of Supporting a Teen Through an Anxiety Attack

Do:

1. Remain Calm: Easier said than done, right? Yet, it’s paramount. Your calm demeanor can act like an anchor, grounding your teen amidst their internal storm.

2. Listen More, Talk Less: Sometimes, all a teen in the throes of an anxiety attack needs is a listening ear. Let them voice their fears without interjecting too much. Your role? Validate their feelings without amplifying the anxiety.

3. Encourage Slow Breathing: Guide them through deep breathing exercises. A simple “Let’s take deep breaths together,” can work wonders. Inhale, hold, exhale — becoming their serene breath coach can literally help them catch their breath.

4. Offer Reassurance: A gentle reminder that this moment of panic is temporary can serve as a beacon of hope. Assure them that they’re not alone and that these overwhelming feelings will pass.

Don’t:

1. Dismiss Their Feelings: Utterances like “Just relax!” or “There’s nothing to worry about!” might seem helpful, but they can come across as diminishing. Acknowledge their fear without belittlement.

2. Force Them to Talk: If your teen isn’t ready to open up, don’t push it. Sometimes, your silent presence is the most powerful form of support.

3. Overwhelm With Questions: Firing off a plethora of questions can heighten anxiety. Instead, keep it simple and supportive. A calm “What can I do to help?” suffices.

4. Panic or Overreact: Seeing a loved one in distress can naturally lead to your own anxiety spiking. However, showing panic or frustration can exacerbate the teen’s anxiety. Keep your wits about you.

Securing the Lifeline: Moving Beyond the Anxiety Attack

Once the storm subsides, embracing a proactive stance on mental wellness is key. Consider these steps:

• Seek Professional Help: If anxiety attacks become a frequent uninvited guest, it might be time to enlist the expertise of a mental health professional.
• Foster Open Communication: Encourage regular check-ins. Cultivating an environment where feelings can be freely expressed without judgment paves the way for trust and understanding.
• Educate Yourself and Your Teen: Understanding anxiety — its triggers, symptoms, and coping mechanisms — can demystify the experience for both of you.
• Practice Self-Care: Model the importance of self-care by integrating practices such as mindfulness, exercise, and healthy eating into your family’s routine.

In guiding a teen through an anxiety attack, remember: It’s not about having all the answers. It’s about being present, showing unconditional support, and navigating the choppy waters together. Your empathy and patience can be the beacon that leads them back to calmer seas.