Serious mental stress is prevalent among American teens. Approximately seven out of ten teens identify anxiety and depression as major problems among their peers.

• Data from the National Survey of Children’s Health indicates that more than 7% of youths aged 3 to 17 had an anxiety disorder in 2023.

• Rates of serious depression have been rising among teens, with greater than12.8% of youths aged 12 to 17 experiencing a major depressive episode in the past year in 2023.

• Question: “What signs of anxiety, and how can you cope with it?”

  • Answer: “Signs of anxiety include restlessness, excessive worry, and physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat. Coping strategies include deep breathing, mindfulness, and seeking professional help.”

• Multiple Choice:

  • a) Positive Choice: “When feeling anxious, I’ll take deep breaths and remind myself that I can handle it.”

    • Score +2

  • b) Negative Choice: “I’ll avoid talking to anyone about my anxiety because it’s embarrassing.”

    • Score +1

  • c) Best Answer: “When feeling anxious, I’ll take deep breaths and remind myself that I can handle it.”

    • Score +3

• Positive Choice (a): “When feeling anxious, I’ll take deep breaths and remind myself that I can handle it.”

  • Consequence: You successfully manage your anxiety, feel calmer, and maintain focus.

• Negative Choice (b): “I’ll avoid talking to anyone about my anxiety because it’s embarrassing.”

  •  Consequence: By bottling up your feelings, anxiety intensifies, affecting your well-being.