“Our most basic emotional need is not to fall in love but to be genuinely loved by another, to know a love that grows out of reason and choice, not instinct. I need to be loved by someone who chooses to love me, who sees in me something worth loving. That kind of love requires effort and discipline. It is the choice to expend energy in an effort to benefit the other person, knowing that if his or her life is enriched by your effort, you too will find a sense of satisfaction—the satisfaction of having genuinely loved another.” - Chapman, G. D. (2010). The five love languages.

Over the past decade there has been a noticeable increase in the prevalence of anxiety disorders among adolescents.  General anxiety, panic attacks and social anxiety are conditions that can significantly impact a person’s daily life.  From academic stress, peer relationships, navigating social media and managing busy schedules many teens are doing their best to stay afloat.  Parents, caregivers and educators who support with compassion, understanding and reasonable expectations can be a beacon of light in the stormy seas of adolescence.