Your Teen needs someone to talk to about their problems

I help talented and capable teens struggling with confidence so they can live a life of joy and connection. Being a teenager here in Charlotte, NC can be difficult at times. Many teens are struggling with anxiety and depression these days. Keeping up with school, social life, sports, and extra-curriculars is stressful. Some are just having a hard time finding their place, feeling lonely and awkward. Social media and the internet complicate things too.

Maybe you’ve noticed something is off with your teen lately. They’re more withdrawn than normal, seem insecure, worried, and stressed. Maybe you notice them feeling down or more irritable lately, not enjoying the things that used to bring them pleasure. Or perhaps they’re stressed, trying to do everything perfect, and worried about failing.

Teenage years are a time where your kids are trying to figure out who they are. They’re trying to sort out their identities; where they fit in. It’s normal to try out different things such as hanging out with different groups of people, changing their styles and interests.

Teens have a lot of questions they’re trying to answer for themselves and trying to sort out societal, parental, peer, church and school expectations all while trying to figure out who they are and the direction they want to go.

This can leave many teens feeling anxious, depressed, socially awkward, and stressed the heck out.

Teen Counseling In Charlotte can help your son or daughter become the bright eyed kid you know and see deep down inside. I can help them learn how to manage their anxiety, depression and social issues and become that young person they were created to be.

“Josh was extremely helpful getting my teenage son through a tough stage. He connected with him, to where my son felt like he was sharing with a friend rather than a therapist. The best was the hug I got, telling me finding Josh was the best decision ever. thank you!!”
- A Happy Mom

Anxiety in teens can manifest in various ways, and it may differ from person to person. However, here are some common signs and symptoms of anxiety in teenagers:

1. Excessive worrying: Teens with anxiety often experience persistent and excessive worries about everyday activities, school, friendships, family, and future events.

2. Physical symptoms: Anxiety can also manifest in physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, muscle tension, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, sweating, and shortness of breath.

3. Changes in sleep patterns: Teens may have difficulty falling asleep, experience restless or disturbed sleep, or have frequent nightmares.

4. Irritability or mood swings: Anxiety can make teenagers more irritable, easily frustrated, or prone to mood swings. They may become more sensitive to criticism or experience outbursts of anger.

5. Avoidance behavior: Teens with anxiety may avoid situations or activities that trigger their anxiety. This could include social events, school presentations, or anything that makes them feel uncomfortable or fearful.

6. Perfectionism: Anxiety can drive teens to set unrealistic standards for themselves, leading to a constant fear of failure and a strong desire to achieve perfection in academics, sports, or other areas of their lives.

7. Social withdrawal: Anxiety can make teens feel self-conscious and anxious in social situations, leading them to withdraw from friends, isolate themselves, or avoid social interactions altogether.

8. Difficulty concentrating: Anxiety can make it challenging for teenagers to concentrate or focus on tasks, leading to decreased academic performance or problems completing assignments.

9. Physical restlessness: Teens with anxiety may exhibit restlessness, fidgeting, or pacing when they feel anxious. They may have difficulty sitting still or staying in one place for extended periods.

10. Changes in appetite: Anxiety can affect appetite, leading to either an increase or decrease in eating habits. Some teens may experience sudden weight loss or gain.

Depression in teenagers can present itself in various ways. Here are some common signs and symptoms of depression in teens:

1. Persistent sadness or low mood: Teens with depression may exhibit prolonged periods of sadness, emptiness, or irritability. They may appear consistently down or have a general sense of hopelessness.

2. Loss of interest or pleasure: Teens with depression often lose interest in activities or hobbies they once enjoyed. They may withdraw from social interactions, isolate themselves, or show a lack of motivation.

3. Changes in appetite or weight: Depression can cause changes in appetite, leading to significant weight loss or gain. Some teens may experience a decrease in appetite and subsequent weight loss, while others may have increased cravings and weight gain.

4. Sleep disturbances: Depressed teenagers may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or experience excessive sleepiness. Conversely, some teens may sleep excessively and have difficulty getting out of bed.

5. Fatigue or loss of energy: Teens with depression often feel a persistent lack of energy and may experience fatigue even after minimal physical or mental exertion.

6. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt: Adolescents with depression may have an overwhelming sense of worthlessness, self-blame, or excessive guilt. They may be overly critical of themselves and believe they are a burden to others.

7. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions: Depression can affect a teen's cognitive abilities, making it challenging to concentrate, remember details, or make decisions. This can lead to academic difficulties and problems with day-to-day tasks.

8. Thoughts of death or suicide: Some depressed teenagers may have recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. They may talk about wanting to die, express feelings of hopelessness, or engage in self-harming behaviors.

9. Physical symptoms: Depression can manifest as physical symptoms such as frequent headaches, stomachaches, backaches, or other unexplained bodily discomforts.

10. Social withdrawal: Teens with depression may withdraw from friends, family, and social activities. They may avoid interaction, isolate themselves, or have difficulty engaging in conversations.