To the editor:
We all experience anxiety. Anxiety is a generally useful emotion that helps us see potential threats and keeps us on alert for deception and risks of social harm. A certain amount of anxiety is even necessary to high levels of performance. Anxiety is problematic when it becomes severe, permanent, persistent and interferes with daily functioning.
These are several different types of anxiety disorders and involve more than temporary worries or fears that do not go away over time. The symptoms associated with anxiety disorders can create great disruption to everyday activities, including school work and relationships.
In the U.S., it is estimated that 18 percent of adults and 32 percent of adolescents aged 13-18 experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. The added stress of isolation due to COVID 19 has impacted everyone, and there is evidence that teens are biologically more vulnerable to the negative impacts of isolation.
Treatment options for anxiety include prescription medication and cognitive behavior therapy. There are also strategies that teens (and adults) can use to self-manage their anxiety.
Brown County High School has a student led club (Bring Change 2 Mind) whose purpose is to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues. On April 23, at 7pm, please join us for a “live” virtual screening of the movie “Angst,” a documentary about teen anxiety. The event is sponsored by the BC2M club and the Students for Equity. A “live” virtual panel discussion will take place following the film.
We invite everyone to register at bit.ly/angstbroco and join us for the film.
If you cannot attend the “live” screening, you can see the film on-demand for 48 hours following the live screening.
Dr. Sandy Washburn, co-adviser to the BC2M BCHS Club
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