A recent post from Humans of New York has gone viral, racking up over 11,000 shares on Facebook within a day. This powerful narrative sheds light on a crucial yet often ignored issue among teenagers: anxiety. Research from the National Institute of Mental Health reveals that around 25% of adolescents aged 13 to 18 experience anxiety disorders, and a troubling 5.9% suffer from severe cases. Despite the treatable nature of these conditions, approximately 80% of affected youth do not receive the necessary help, as reported by the Child Mind Institute, a nonprofit focused on children’s mental health.
A Personal Story of Struggle
In the featured story, a student from Bogotá recounts her experience with anxiety. “I was the top student in my high school, always striving for perfection. But during 10th grade, I fell ill and began to lag behind. That’s when the panic attacks started,” she shared. She vividly described a moment of overwhelming fear: “When my teacher handed me my grade report, I felt like I couldn’t breathe. My heart raced, and I felt detached from everything around me. I lost consciousness and woke up in the infirmary. After that, the panic attacks became nearly daily.”
Similarly, I had my own struggles in tenth grade, feeling dizzy and lightheaded in class. After fainting a few times, my doctor recommended yoga and provided me with an inhaler for panic attacks, believing it might draw less attention than a paper bag technique. Over the years, I’ve discovered various coping strategies, with yoga and open discussions about my anxiety ranking among the most effective.
The Challenges of College Life
The teen from the Humans of New York post shared how starting college became a source of distress. “I can’t be the best student here, no matter how hard I try. Everyone is so talented. My panic attacks worsened to the point where I had to withdraw from my first semester.” Recognizing the importance of seeking help, she began to confront her anxiety instead of hiding it. “I used to go offline on social media and ignore calls, thinking if no one knew, it wouldn’t exist. But as I talked about it more, I realized many others share similar struggles. Now, I’m working to express my feelings openly.”
The Importance of Support
The Child Mind Institute reports alarming statistics: around 4,600 adolescents take their own lives each year, and approximately 157,000 are hospitalized for self-inflicted injuries. It is essential to provide support for teens battling anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Relief can come from various sources, including therapy, medication, relaxation techniques, and even artistic expression. The student shared a poignant piece of advice from her art teacher: “Instead of letting anxiety prevent you from creating, let it inspire your art.”
Resources for Mental Health
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Conclusion
In summary, the Humans of New York post highlights the significance of discussing anxiety among teens, a critical step toward healing and understanding. It also encourages open conversations, providing a sense of community for those grappling with similar issues.