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

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.

Some Sources of Stress for Teens Include:

Helpful behaviors and techniques:

teen stress management

Stress in College Students

According to the American Psychological Association in 2024 stress levels among K-12 students are alarmingly high, with seven out of ten U.S. teens (ages 13-17) identifying anxiety or depression as major issues among their peers. In school, 75% of high school students report experiencing boredom, anger, sadness, fear, or stress. On a 10-point scale, where adult stress averages 3.8, American teens rate their stress at 5.8. Additionally, three-quarters of high school students and half of middle schoolers consistently feel stressed due to schoolwork.

stressed college students

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.

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

Addressing Student Stress

Understanding the prevalence and causes of student stress is crucial for educators, administrators, and parents. By identifying stress factors and their impact, stakeholders can develop strategies to support students better. Since no one can avoid stress, and the prevalence is so high, students are encouraged to take one of the scientifically validated online stress assessments available at The American Institute of Stress website; Either the Stress Mastery Questionnaire (SMQ) or the Rosch Stress Profiler (RSP).

Awareness and proactive measures can help alleviate some of the pressures students face, ensuring they have the necessary resources and support to succeed both academically and personally.

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