The number of young people who are looking online for help with anxiety is increasing.
This is according to charities Anxiety UK and YouthNet, reported by BBC Radio 1.
In January 2014, Anxiety UK had more than 5,000 young visitors on their site, compared to just over 3,500 at the same time last year. YouthNet had more than 1,000 more as well – 10,936 in comparison to 9,611 in January 2013.
“Anxiety is a ticking time bomb among young people,” said Emma Rubach from YouthNet.
“For many years it hasn’t really been recognised that they’re suffering from this.”
She added the rise of smartphones and social media meant it was difficult for young people to switch off and step away from the virtual world.
Terri Torevell from Anxiety UK said: “There needs to be more support for young people with anxiety.”
Anjeli Shah, aged 21, is an example of someone who has been given help for her anxiety.
Last year she started suffering symptoms of the condition and said she found it difficult to go to crowded places such as parties or public transport.
Anjeli has since been referred to a psychologist and hopes life will soon return to normal.
