What it can feel like
A racing heart before tests, overthinking texts, trouble sleeping, stomachaches, or feeling panicky and not knowing why. It can feel like your brain will not turn off.
Why it happens
School stress, social media, comparison, and big questions about the future keep your stress system switched on. Your developing brain feels it all intensely — this is real, not you being dramatic.
What can help
Breathing and grounding calm your body fast. Cutting late-night screens and caffeine helps. A school counselor can teach coping skills and connect you to support. If anxiety is running your life, that is a reason to reach out, not tough it out.