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Stress in Teens and Young Adults

Teenagers, like adults, may experience stress every day and can benefit from learning stress management skills. Teens face stressors from a variety of sources like significant life changes, school, social lives, and family. While stress is very common in teens and young adults, they may not yet have the resources and skills to cope effectively.

According to the American Psychological Association in 2024:

  • 70% of  U.S. teens (ages 13-17) identify anxiety or depression as major issues among their peers
  • 75% of high school students report experiencing boredom, anger, sadness, fear, or stress in school
  • On a 10-point scale, where adult stress averages 3.8, American teens rate their stress at 5.8
  • 75% of high school students and 50% of middle schoolers consistently feel stressed due to schoolwork

Introduction to Stress for Teens

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A Self-Paced Course   $5.00

An AIS-certified course designed for teens and young adults to learn about the relaxation response and managing everyday stressors. This short course teaches teens the basic science behind stress and valuable tactics for coping with their stress.

The Stress Response in Young Adults

When stressed, changes occur in our minds and bodies to prepare us to respond to danger. This “fight, flight, or freeze” response can involve symptoms like faster heart and breathing rates, increased blood flow to arm and leg muscles, cold or clammy hands and feet, upset stomach, and a sense of dread. Young adults may struggle deal with overwhelming stress and its symptoms, leading to the following common reactions:

  • Anxiety
  • Withdrawal
  • Aggression
  • Physical illness
  • Drug and alcohol abuse

While stress can be especially difficult for teens and young adults, it may be reassuring to know that we can use the mechanism that turns on the stress response to turn it off. Convincing the body that it is not in danger through stress management practices and mindfulness can calm stress symptoms. Young adults that develop a “relaxation response” and other stress management skills feel more empowered and informed when responding to stress.

Supporting Stressed Teens

For those looking to support a young adult in their life, encouraging open discussion of stressors, offering reassurance, and practicing stress management tactics can be key steps to tacking their stress together.

Understanding the prevalence and causes of student stress is crucial for parents, educators, and school administrators. Adults can develop strategies to better support young adults, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support to succeed both personally and academically.

Adult Talking to a Teen on the couch

Sources:

  • School demands
  • Negative thoughts or feelings about themselves
  • Changes in their bodies
  • Problems with peers at school
  • Unsafe living environment
  • Separation or divorce of parents
  • Moving or changing schools
  • Juggling activities
  • Managing high expectations
  • Family financial problems
  • Severe illness or death of a loved one

Solutions:

  • Practice regular exercise and healthy eating
  • Establish a good sleep routine
  • Avoid excess caffeine (can increase feelings of anxiety and agitation)
  • Avoid illegal drugs, alcohol, and tobacco
  • Practice relaxation exercises (abdominal breathing and muscle relaxation)
  • Learn to express feelings politely, but firmly
  • Rehearse situations which cause stress
  • Decrease negative self-talk: challenge negative thoughts with alternative, neutral, or positive thoughts
  • Stop expecting perfection from yourself and others; learn to feel good about doing a competent or “good enough” job
  • Build a network of friends who help you cope in a positive way

Stress Management Resources

Reduce stress and build resilience with practical, science-based tools from AIS and our partners. Start today by exploring our resources designed to help you manage stress effectively.

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Teen Stress Statistics

Source: Worldometrics Report 2024

32%

of teenagers reported experiencing extreme stress during the school year

26%

of teenagers reported using drugs or alcohol as a coping mechanism for stress

30%

of teens reported feeling depressed or sad due to high stress levels

23%

of teens report skipping a meal due to stress

34%

of teens expect stress to increase in the coming year

Stress in College Students

  • 40% of U.S. college students feel inadequately rested most days.
  • 25% of students admit that lack of sleep negatively impacts their academic performance, resulting in lower grades or missed deadlines.
  • 45% of American college students report experiencing "more than average stress."
  • Only 9% of students report "no stress" or "less than average stress."

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