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Teen social anxiety: Crochet, calming exercises and trusted adults can help
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Young people interviewed by The Straits Times say they have experienced fears of being judged by other people and a lack of a sense of belonging in school.
PHOTO: ISTOCKPHOTO
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- Teen social anxiety is rising, especially in girls aged 8½ to 13, potentially impacting well-being and performance; a nationwide IMH survey found high levels of anxiety in Singaporean youth.
- Experiencing social anxiety can manifest differently in teens; girls may express emotions, while boys might show behavioural issues, highlighting the need for parental sensitivity and positive relationships.
- Calming techniques, therapy and parental support, like Ms Sara Cher's experience, are crucial; experts advise parents to address concerns, foster open communication and seek professional help when needed.
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SINGAPORE – In secondary school, Ms Sara Cher was far from a shrinking violet. She asked questions in class and was an active member of the drama club, her co-curricular activity.
When she started experiencing social anxiety and panic attacks in Secondary 3 – sometimes slipping out of lessons to hole up in the school toilets for more than an hour – people around her thought she was “faking it”, recalls Ms Cher.
