NewYork-Presbyterian
Youth Anxiety Center
Advancing the Understanding and Treatment of Anxiety in Teens and Young Adults
The Youth Anxiety Center, a clinical and research program founded by a dedicated group of supporters, is deeply committed to addressing the epidemic of anxiety and depression in adolescents and young adults.
Through the collaboration of nationally recognized faculty from the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia and the Weill Cornell Medical College, the Youth Anxiety Center offers hope and help to young people and their families.
Dr. Herbert Pardes
Executive Director
Our Team
Reputable Psychiatrists
The faculty of the Departments of Psychiatry at Weill Cornell Medicine and Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons are experts in their fields and leaders in psychiatric research and education. Through our affiliation with two of the nation’s top universities, our behavioral healthcare providers engage in the pursuit of knowledge and the advancement of patient care.
ANXIETY & RELATED CONDITIONS
Identifying Anxiety Disorders and the Need for Clinical Care
While normal levels of anxiety may be helpful, excessive anxiety can cripple a young person’s ability to function, undermine their lives going forward, and endanger their overall welfare. Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to anxiety as they transition into adulthood. More so than at any other time in life, the adolescent brain is capable of remarkable adaptability. Unfortunately, this challenging developmental phase is also a peak time for the clinical onset of many mental illnesses.
Anxiety and avoidance behavior can have a damaging impact on daily life including outcomes at school, friendships, and intimate relationships. When anxiety becomes so disruptive that it interferes with the individual’s daily life or their family, it is time to seek the attention of a trained clinician. Tragically, a young person with an anxiety disorder may drop out of school, abuse drugs or alcohol, or may attempt or commit suicide.
The Prevalence of Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent class of mental health problems affecting children and young adults in the United States, collectively affecting roughly one in every three adolescents. Anxiety disorders typically begin in childhood, and when left untreated can persist and become chronic conditions associated with a considerably reduced quality of life.
Featured Stories
Adolescent and Young Adult Behavioral Health News & Stories
Is Social Media Threatening Teens’ Mental Health and Well-being? Is Social Media Threatening Teens’ Mental Health and Well-being?
Too much time spent on social media could increase depression, anxiety, and social isolation, especially among young people.
How To Help Kids Handle Back-To-School Jitters How To Help Kids Handle Back-To-School Jitters
Dr. Shannon M. Bennett, site clinical director of the Youth Anxiety Center, provides strategies for reducing students' stress and anxiety.
How to Spot the Potential Warning Signs of Suicide How to Spot the Potential Warning Signs of Suicide
Suicide expert Dr. Mark Russ on recognizing suicidal behavior, and how to help someone who is suffering and may be contemplating taking their own life.
Dealing with Coronasomnia?
Disrupted daily routines and uncertain futures have led to an insomnia pandemic. A sleep expert explains what you need to know to get a better night’s rest.
A Road Map to Finding Calm Amid Coronavirus Anxiety
In these uncertain times, a leading cognitive therapy expert offers tips to manage anxiety during an outbreak.
Do the Benefits of Weighted Blankets Live Up to the Hype?
The increasingly popular product is said to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. We tried it and asked experts to weigh in on the science behind the claims.
Treatments & Services
World-Renowned Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Care
At the Youth Anxiety Center, we provide outpatient therapy, intensive day treatment, partial hospitalization, and other treatment programs specifically designed to meet the unique needs of adolescents and young adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
Questions and Answers About Anxiety and the Youth Anxiety Center
PATIENT STORIES
Learn How We Help Our Patients Stay Amazing
When you have that feeling of despair and feel that there’s no hope at all, that’s a symptom of a treatable illness. You should be relentless in pursuing treatments until you find those that can make you better.
Locations
Access to the Nation’s Top Behavioral Health Care throughout New York City and Westchester
Columbia University Clinic for Anxiety and Related Disorders
Weill Cornell Medicine Psychiatry Specialty Center
NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center
NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute