Understanding and Managing Anxiety in Young People

In recent months, it has become increasingly evident that young people are facing significant levels of anxiety that adversely affect their wellbeing and educational performance. As an NLP4Kids practitioner based in Telford, I have observed first hand the challenges that students encounter in both social and academic settings. 

Many students report feeling overwhelmed by heavy workloads, family stresses, and societal expectations, leading to emotional turmoil and erratic behaviour. This article explores the impact of anxiety on young people and how the NLP4Kids approach can provide effective strategies for overcoming these challenges.

The Growing Concern of Anxiety Among Young People

In my work with young people over the past year, I have seen a marked increase in anxiety-related issues. Students often express their worries in informal settings, where discussions about stress become counterproductive. Rather than providing comfort, these conversations tend to exacerbate feelings of anxiety, with each student amplifying the other’s fears. This creates a cycle of negativity that can hinder their ability to cope.

The Research

Research indicates that when individuals discuss their worries in a group, it can lead to a phenomenon known as “emotional contagion,” where emotions are transferred between individuals, intensifying feelings of anxiety rather than alleviating them.
(Hatfield, E., Cacioppo, J. T., & Rapson, R. L. (1994). Emotional Contagion. Current Directions in Psychological Science)

Anxiety is a common emotional response, particularly during high-pressure situations like exams. However, when this anxiety persists beyond the triggering events, it can significantly impair a young person’s overall quality of life. Students may find it increasingly difficult to concentrate, engage socially, and maintain their energy levels. This creates a barrier to learning and personal development, resulting in a sense of hopelessness and frustration.

The Importance of Addressing Anxiety Early

Ignoring the signs of anxiety can have long-term implications for young people. Chronic anxiety can lead to a host of health issues, including increased vulnerability to illness due to the stress hormone cortisol suppressing the immune system. Furthermore, students who do not learn to manage their anxiety may develop negative attitudes that hinder their opportunities for positive social interactions and personal growth.
It is crucial to address anxiety effectively to help young people navigate their emotions and develop resilience. While we may not be able to resolve all the individual circumstances contributing to a student’s anxiety, we can equip them with the tools to manage their feelings constructively. This proactive approach is essential for fostering a more positive learning environment.

The Child Therapy Telford – NLP4Kids Approach: Empowering Young People

One of the most effective methods I employ as an NLP4Kids practitioner is the use of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques. Specifically, the “Anchoring” technique is a powerful tool for helping young people manage their anxiety. Anchoring involves creating a mental association between a specific emotional state and a physical trigger. By practising this technique, students can learn to evoke feelings of calm and confidence even in stressful situations. For instance, I guide students through a process where they recall a moment in their lives when they felt completely at ease and confident. They focus on the sensations they experienced during that time and create a physical anchor. Later, when they encounter anxiety-inducing scenarios, they can use this anchor to trigger those positive feelings, helping them to regain control over their emotions.

Building a Supportive Community

As students learn to manage their anxiety through NLP techniques, they begin to adopt more positive interactions with their peers. By sharing their successes and focusing on their strengths, students can shift the narrative from one of fear and stress to one of empowerment and optimism. 

This transformation not only enhances their own experiences but also positively influences their relationships with classmates, family, and the wider community. 

The ripple effect of teaching young people to manage their anxiety is great. Students who engage in these techniques often demonstrate improved attitudes and behaviours, creating a calmer atmosphere in educational settings. This, in turn, benefits those who may not have participated directly in the sessions, as the overall environment becomes more conducive to learning and personal growth.

Address Anxiety Head On

We must prioritise the mental health of young people by addressing anxiety head-on. As an NLP4Kids practitioner at Child Therapy Telford, I believe that equipping students with effective coping strategies is essential for their success in both academic and personal areas. By teaching them to manage their anxiety, we empower them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. 

The challenge of anxiety is not impossible. With the right support and guidance, young people can learn to handle their emotions and develop stronger. As parents and educators, it is our responsibility to provide them with the tools they need to thrive in an increasingly complex world. Let’s create a future where anxiety does not hold our young people back from realising their full potential.

For more information on how NLP4Kids can help manage anxiety and support young people, visit Child Therapy Telford. https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org

Book a FREE consultation with Child Therapy Telford. https://louisa-nlp4kids.youcanbook.me

https://childtherapytelford.nlp4kids.org
07966 819194
louisa@nlp4kids.org