How often do you ask your teen or loved one, “How was your day?” only to hear, “Fine”? Many people struggle to put their emotions into words. Anxiety, sadness, grief, or fear may instead show up as anger, withdrawal, irritability, or changes at home, school, or work. Creative, art-based activities can offer another way to express those feelings.

Let’s take a moment to explore some of the most common misunderstandings I hear in these conversations and talk about what is true in a straightforward and honest way.

Stressful days are common and can lead to moments of anxiousness, but diagnosed anxiety involves persistent, intense feelings that significantly change how your teen thinks, feels, and acts each day.