When young adults struggle with anxiety, it can quickly become all consuming. Their anxiety may hinder their ability to navigate through their day-to-day life. As a parent, it can be extremely difficult to watch your child struggle. You may not know what to say or what to do to help them feel any sort of relief. And that’s okay. It is okay to not know. Treatment for anxiety in young adults comes in many forms.  The best treatment for your young adult will vary based on their individual needs.

Before you attempt to help your young adult, you should first educate yourself on anxiety and its breadth. Here are 5 quick facts about how anxiety impacts today’s young adults:

• About half of the emerging adult group has been treated for a mental health condition
• 23% of young adults have reported missing work because of anxiety
• 33% of younger adults view mental health care as inaccessible or difficult to find
• Anxiety increases suicide risks among young adults
• 27% of young adults have reported being treated for anxiety in particular

From Stress to Anxiety

It is normal that young adults will feel stressed. However, there is a line to be drawn. Where is that line? Consider these ideas:

Feelings

• Fear or dread
• Irritation or anger

Thoughts

• “What if….”
• “Something terrible will happen”
• “I’m just going to embarrass myself and everyone will laugh at me”
• “Nothing ever works out…I’m a failure”
• “Why won’t they do this the way I want it to be done?”
• “I don’t know why I can’t control this”

Actions

• Avoiding things, people, or places that make you feel anxious
• Often using distractions to avoid anxiety
• Checking things often to make sure everything is okay
• Often seeking reassurance from others
• Struggling to pay attention or concentrate
• Getting very angry at other people over minor problems

Bodily Changes

• Restlessness, or finding it hard to sit still
• Racing heart
• Sweating more than usual
• Difficulties sleeping well
• Feeling tired often
• Muscle aches and pains
• More digestive problems than usual, like stomach aches

Treatment Plans for Parents

Treatment for anxiety in young adults has many different options. This could be in the form of counseling, therapy, and/or medication. As a parent there is not a magic switch you can flip to change things for your child. Instead, you should follow these three steps to getting them the treatment they need:

1. Address the issue. You should be upfront with your young adult about your concerns. Let them know you are worried about them and want them to know it is okay to ask for help. This should be something they feel supported in doing.
2. Seek out professional sources. Your young adult’s health care provider is a great place to start. Help them get properly evaluated first, then determine the best plan following assessments from a professional.
3. Be present. Overcoming anxiety struggles can be a difficult process for your young adult. As a parent, the best thing you can do for them is be supportive during this time. Listen to them and love them.

Trails Momentum can help

Trails Momentum is a wilderness therapy program for teens and young adults ages 18-25 to transition to independence and improved self-awareness. The sophisticated and integrated program uses adventure therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and a strength-based approach. It is a small and nurturing community that focuses on the common goals of improved self-regulation and overall functioning for the young adults. Trails Momentum gives students the skills they need to lead healthier, happier lives. We can help your family today!

Contact us at 877-296-8711.