Ep. 216: Teen Anxiety: Signs, Causes, and Effective Treatment Options with Dr. Ashley Smith

This week, we had an engaging and enlightening discussion with Dr. Ashley Smith about teen anxiety. Dr. Ashley Smith is an award-winning licensed psychologist and expert in anxiety, and we explore the critical differences between stress and anxiety, the various factors that are causing the surge in teen anxiety, and actionable strategies for parents and educators to support teens who are struggling.

Dr. Ashley highlights the importance of distinguishing typical adolescent stress from pervasive anxiety that disrupts daily life, and she discusses the role of societal shifts like technology, social media, and recent global events in shaping teens' mental health, alongside challenges like academic pressure. She also offers some practical advice on recognizing hidden signs of anxiety, such as perfectionism, avoidance, and emotional dysregulation.

Our conversation also uncovers how modern culture, including the “good vibes only” mindset and misinformation on social media, impacts teens' ability to process their emotions, with Dr. Ashley highlighting early intervention and equipping listeners with tools to help teens build resilience, from modeling healthy coping strategies to encouraging bravery in the face of adversity.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver of teens who suffer from anxiety, this episode provides valuable insights into supporting teens through challenges while fostering their psychological strength. 

Show Notes:

[2:23] - Anxiety, Dr. Ashley explains, acts as a warning system, but excessive anxiety can disrupt functioning and become a disorder.
[5:45] - Dr. Ashley stresses the importance of early intervention for anxiety; it worsens over time and increases the risk of depression and suicide.
[7:39] - Anxiety shows up in various ways, including aggression, perfectionism, and avoidance.
[10:23] - Phones aren't inherently bad, but social media use can worsen anxiety through comparisons, cyberbullying, and sleep disruption.
[12:17] - Dr. Ashley argues that technology and social media have amplified teen anxiety, with factors like COVID-19 and social inequality contributing.
[15:14] - Anxiety and depression often exist in tandem, with societal pressures and heavy workloads increasing teens' stress.
[18:00] - Anxiety should not be used as an excuse for inaction; building resilience and equipping teens with tools is very important.
[19:26] - It's so important for parents to help kids manage anxiety, teach coping skills, and encourage being brave.
[22:42] - Modeling anxiety strategies shows kids how to cope, but therapy can offer further support.
[23:52] - Ashley points out that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) are effective treatments for anxiety.
[26:38] - Parents should approach therapy conversations gently, understanding that their teen may not recognize their anxiety.
[27:24] - Treating teen anxiety can involve parents using strategies like SPACE, focusing on calm, non-judgmental conversations.
[30:21] - Parents of teens with anxiety often feel isolated and judged, but Dr. Ashley encourages listeners that support groups can help.
[32:57] - To manage social anxiety, parents should limit exposure to social media to prevent unnecessary stress.

Links and Related Resources:

• Anxiety Mini-Course for Parents

• Episode 131: Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Kids and Teens with Dr. Shadab Jannati

• Episode 153: Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with Dr. Jesse Spiegel

• ADAA

• SPACE Treatment

• Dr. Ashley Smith - The Way I See It: A Psychologist’s Guide to a Happier Life

• Jonathan Haidt - The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness

Connect with Us:

• Get on our Email List

• Book a Consultation

• Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider

• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses: Support for Parents Who Have Children with ADHD, Anxiety, or Dyslexia 

Connect with Dr. Ashley Smith:

• Ashley’s Website

• Ashley’s Instagram Profile

• Ashley’s TikTok Profile

• Email: [email protected]

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc. or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.