Social Anxiety on the Rise as Students Return to School

Mental health and wellness expert Jane Marks joined “Start Your Day” host Sharon Reed to share a few social anxiety signs for parents to look out for and how to handle them as children head back to school.

One in three teens girls and one in five teen boys have experienced new or worsening anxiety or depression. It’s at an even more increased risk for teens of color, who are more likely to experience diabetes and hypertension this year, along with mental health issues. “For parents this year, they’ve got to be on the lookout because so many of our teens have burnt out on these pandemic precautions,” said Marks, adding that some teens may be a little more confident this time around, but that won’t be the case for everyone. “Teens need a space to voice their joy, their sadness, their frustrations. So parents, it’s so important to be flexible, it’s always critical to look ahead.” Marks noted that parents should be on the lookout for elevated anxiety, including sudden bursts of anger, changes in emotions, sensitivity to criticism, eating patterns and grades dropping. Marks added that support groups and in-school resources are also important and will help students achieve success.

All this and more on “Start Your Day.”

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