Hi! This page is for you.
Everybody worries sometimes. Here you can learn about worry, find out what other kids feel, and try some ways to feel more in charge.
So, what is anxiety?
Anxiety is the feeling of worry or nervousness you get when you're not sure what will happen. It's your body's alarm system, and it's there to help keep you safe.
Sometimes the alarm goes off too much, even when things are OK. That can make it hard to go to school, see friends, or sleep. The good news: lots of kids feel this way, and there are things you can learn that really help.
Kinds of worry
Worry can show up in different ways. Do any of these sound like you?
Missing Mom or Dad
Feeling really worried when you are away from your parents, like at school, sleepovers, or bedtime.
Feeling shy or embarrassed
Worrying that other kids will laugh at you, or feeling nervous talking, reading out loud, or joining in.
Worrying a lot
Lots of "what if" worries about school, health, family, or the news, sometimes with tummy aches or trouble sleeping.
Big fears
A really strong fear of something like bugs, dogs, storms, the dark, shots, or throwing up.
Sudden scary feelings
Your heart races, you feel dizzy or shaky, and it seems to come out of nowhere.
Stuck thoughts
A worry that keeps coming back, and a feeling that you have to wash, check, or ask again to make it go away.
After something scary
Feeling upset or jumpy after a scary thing happened, or having memories that pop up.
Books for teens
Workbooks and guides written for teens, with skills you can practice on your own or with a parent or therapist.
Camp Cope-A-Lot
An animated online program where you join a camp full of characters and learn skills to handle worry, one level at a time. You do it with a grown-up coach, like a parent or counselor.
Talk to someone you trust
Telling a parent, teacher, school counselor, coach, or doctor about your worries is a smart and strong thing to do. You can even show them this website.
Having a really hard time right now?
If you feel unsafe or are thinking about hurting yourself, you don’t have to handle it alone. These services are free and confidential, and you can text if talking feels like too much.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988, or chat online. Spanish is available too.
Teen Line
Talk with trained teens who get it. Text TEEN to 839863 (6 to 9 p.m. PT) or call 800-852-8336 (6 to 10 p.m. PT). For ages 19 and under.
The Trevor Project
Support for LGBTQ+ young people. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678.
In danger right now? Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.