Growing Rates of Anxiety and Self-Harm Among Teens

Teen anxiety and self-harm are rapidly growing concerns for families across Anne Arundel County and beyond. At Bay Area Counseling & Consultation (BACC), our therapists are seeing more adolescents struggling to manage overwhelming emotions than ever before. These challenges not only impact teens’ emotional health but also affect their academic performance, friendships, and long-term well-being.

Why Are Teen Anxiety and Self-Harm Rates Rising?

Research shows that nearly 40% of high school students experience persistent anxiety or sadness (CDC, 2023). Emergency room visits for self-harm have doubled in the last decade (CDC, 2022), and studies indicate that girls and LGBTQ+ youth are especially vulnerable (Trevor Project, 2024).

At BACC, our providers offer specialized counseling services designed to help teens manage these struggles and build healthier coping strategies.

Common Factors Behind Teen Anxiety and Self-Harm

Several issues contribute to this growing trend:

• Social media and cyberbullying fueling stress and low self-esteem
• Academic pressures and fear of failure leading to chronic anxiety
• Pandemic-related disruptions that continue to affect routines and stability
• Trauma and family conflict increasing vulnerability to distress
• Economic challenges affecting overall family well-being
• Limited access to mental health support delaying treatment

Our therapists recognize that every teen’s situation is unique, and we provide personalized, compassionate care.

Why Girls and LGBTQ+ Teens Face Greater Risks

Girls often experience hormonal shifts and social pressures that heighten anxiety. LGBTQ+ youth may face identity struggles, bullying, or discrimination, increasing their risk for self-harm and depression (Trevor Project, 2024).

At BACC, we offer affirming, specialized support to address these unique challenges and help teens feel seen, understood, and supported.

Anxiety and Self-Harm: The Hidden Connection

For many teens, self-harm becomes a way to temporarily manage overwhelming emotions. While it may provide short-term relief, it often causes serious harm and points to deeper issues that need healing. Our therapists help teens address the root causes while developing safe, healthy coping tools.

Warning Signs Parents Should Look For

Families should be aware of potential red flags such as:

• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Unexplained injuries or covering up with long sleeves
• Mood swings, irritability, or feelings of hopelessness
• Declining grades or reduced interest in activities
• Disrupted eating or sleeping patterns

If you notice these changes, early professional intervention can make a significant difference.

How Families, Schools, and Communities Can Support Teens

At BACC, we believe in a team approach to youth mental health:

• Foster open, non-judgmental communication at home
• Monitor and guide social media use
• Expand mental health education in schools
• Reduce stigma and normalize therapy for teens
• Teach coping skills such as mindfulness, journaling, or grounding practices
• Innovative Teen Counseling Services

BACC offers a variety of evidence-based and innovative therapies that go beyond traditional talk therapy, including:

• Animal-Assisted Psychotherapy with our therapy dog Leona
• Equine-Assisted Group Therapy with trained horse partners
• Safe & Sound Protocol to support nervous system regulation
• Individual, family, and group counseling tailored to teens’ needs

These services provide safe, supportive environments where teens can build resilience, heal, and thrive.

Conclusion

Teen anxiety and self-harm are rising challenges that require urgent attention. By recognizing the signs early and connecting with compassionate, evidence-based care, families can help their teens manage overwhelming emotions and reduce harmful behaviors.

At Bay Area Counseling & Consultation, we are dedicated to supporting local families with specialized services that encourage healing, resilience, and long-term well-being.

FAQs

How can I tell if my teen is self-harming?

Look for unexplained cuts or burns, long sleeves in warm weather, sudden mood changes, withdrawal, or secrecy about injuries.

 

Is self-harm the same as being suicidal?

Not always. Many teens self-harm to cope with pain rather than end their lives. However, untreated self-harm can increase suicide risk over time.

What treatments are available for teens with anxiety and self-harm?

BACC offers psychotherapy, Safe and Sound Protocol, animal-assisted therapy, equine therapy, and family counseling for teens.

How can families best support a struggling teen?

Create open dialogue, reduce stigma around mental health, seek counseling early, guide social media use, and encourage healthy coping practices.

How common are mental health struggles among teens?

Studies show that about 60% of teens experience mental health challenges like anxiety or depression in 2025 (NIMH, 2025).

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Emergency Department Visits for Nonfatal Self-harm.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Youth Risk Behavior Survey.
• The Trevor Project. (2024). National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health.