Dealing with Anxiety, Depression, and Pressure as a Teen

If you’re a teenager right now, you’re carrying more than most people realize. School pressure, social expectations, family struggles, fear about the future - and that’s all before lunch. Add anxiety or depression into the mix, and every day can feel like a battle just to hold it together.

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Here’s the good news: God sees you. He’s not distant from your pain. He’s not disappointed in your struggle. In fact, some of the greatest saints wrestled with deep emotional and mental battles - just like you. You’re not alone. You’re not broken. You’re human.

Let’s talk about anxiety. It’s not just “worrying too much.” It’s often feeling like something bad is coming even when nothing’s wrong. It can feel like your chest is tight, like your thoughts won’t slow down, like you’re stuck in your head. It’s exhausting. Depression can feel like a fog. Like you’re numb, unmotivated, like everything is gray. You may even feel guilty for feeling this way, especially as a Christian. You might think, “Shouldn’t I be joyful?” But listen - faith doesn’t erase emotions. It anchors you through them.

In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus - fully God and fully human - felt so overwhelmed with anguish that He sweat blood. He fell to His knees and cried out, “Father, if it is possible, take this cup from me.” That is not weakness. That is honesty. That is Jesus showing you that it’s okay to feel deeply, to struggle, to cry out for help.

If you’re dealing with anxiety or depression, start by being honest with God. Tell Him everything. Even your anger, your numbness, your doubt. He can handle it. He wants it. He says, “Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Also, know this: getting help is not a lack of faith. Going to therapy, talking to a counselor, or taking medication if needed is not weakness. It’s wisdom. God gave us minds and medicine and people who can walk with us. Don’t try to fight alone.

In your struggle, cling to God’s promises. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” That includes you. He is with you in the anxiety, in the tears, in the confusion. His love is not based on how you feel - it’s based on who He is.

Try practical things, too. Daily prayer - even short and messy. Getting good sleep. Limiting social media. Taking care of your body. Talking to someone you trust. These small steps invite healing.

Above all, remember: You are not your mental health condition. You are not your lowest moment. You are not what others expect of you. You are God’s. And your story is not over.

You’re stronger than you think. You’re not alone. You’re never too far gone. And with Jesus, there is always hope - even in the dark.