Supporting your teenage student: why are our teens so anxious and what can be done to help them?

Anxiety is the one of the most common mental-health disorders in the world today – for teens and adults. In a recent article, the NY Times state that over the last decade anxiety has overtaken depression as the most common reason college students seek counselling services. *And, in a recent survey, the American College Health Association found that in 2016 62% of college undergrads report “overwhelming anxiety,” up from 50% in 2011. **On average, teens reported their stress level, when reported on a ten-point scale, is higher than that of adults. What is causing this and what can be done about it? Social media and smartphones play a role, but is there more? Unfortunately, this trend is no surprise to experts who work with teens. They say that the pressures of schoolwork, social life, sports or other activities — combined with a relentless media culture — mean that young people may be tenser than ever before. As parents and teachers, it is our responsibility to provide the right kind of environment and level of support for our students; to help them prepare for the future with balance and coping strategies and encouraging them to enjoy their free moments, unencumbered by anxiety. Easier said than done!

AmCham invites you to join us for the second in a three-part Health & Wellness series that focuses on teen stress. We are honored to welcome a distinguished panel of speakers who, through their jobs in schools and NGOs, work every day on the front lines, seeing first-hand the impact stress and anxiety have on today’s youth. Through a facilitated panel discussion and Q & A, our speakers will help us deepen our understanding of the issues with which our teens are dealing as well discussing ways in which we can all help to address the issue.

Light refreshment included

Hosted by the Education Committee​

•    All cancellations must be notified in writing at least two working days prior to the event, or six working days prior to the conference. No-shows will be charged
•    When Typhoon 8 (or above) or Black Rainstorm Signal is hoisted, all events will be cancelled