When success hurts: How Arizonans can help teens avoid burnout

Patrick Buehl

Submitted photo/Mathew Molyneux

If you suspect your teen is burning out, start by listening without judgment. Many teens won’t speak up out of fear of letting someone they love down.”

Today’s teens are striving for excellence in a world that equates success with self-worth. And because of social media likes, college prep courses and packed resumes, many are silently suffering.

We’re seeing an alarming rise in burnout among high-achieving adolescents. Teens who have straight A’s and full schedules, who always push to do more, may “look fine” on the outside, but are actually likely battling exhaustion, anxiety and emotional shutdown. The pressure to be perfect is leaving many teens quietly unraveling.

Burnout isn’t just feeling tired after a long day; it’s a chronic condition marked by emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Burnout is hitting teens younger and harder than ever before.

Why teens burn out, especially in summer

Summer was once a time for teens to recharge. Today, it often brings:

• Loss of routine creates instability for teens who thrive on structure.
• Increased screen time heightens exposure to cultural comparison and FOMO.
• Social shifts, like isolation from friends or changes in support systems.
• Excessive heat (especially here in Arizona) keeps teens indoors, limiting movement and compounding mood issues.

It might look like your teen is simply sleeping in or just on the phone, but these behaviors may actually be signs of something deeper.

7 signs your teen may be experiencing burnout

Here are early indicators of burnout that parents and caregivers can watch for:

• Chronic exhaustion, even with plenty of sleep
• Lack of motivation toward school, goals, or hobbies
• Withdrawal from friends, family or previously enjoyed activities
• Increased anxiety, perfectionism or emotional numbness
• Physical symptoms like frequent headaches or stomachaches
• Irritability or mood swings that feel out of character
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering things

How to respond if you’re concerned

If you suspect your teen is burning out, start by listening without judgment. Many teens won’t speak up out of fear of letting someone they love down. Here’s how you can help your teen:

• Validate their experience. Let them know it’s OK to feel overwhelmed.
• Encourage balance. Help them build a summer routine that includes rest, movement, creativity and connection.
• Limit screen time and encourage offline activities, even if it’s just a walk or making a meal together.
• Watch your language. Avoid praising productivity over well-being. Instead of using phrases like, “You’re so busy!” try, “You seem really thoughtful about how you spend your time.”
• Seek professional support. If burnout signs persist or worsen, don’t wait to reach out. Early intervention is key.

Nearly 75% of high school students say they’re often or always stressed by schoolwork. And 1 in 3 adolescents now meets the criteria for an anxiety disorder. These numbers are likely underreported, especially among high-functioning teens who are less likely to ask for help, but it’s clear many teens are in the midst of a crisis.

If you’re concerned about your child, you’re not alone. There is hope. I recommend reaching out to an organization that provides a safe, supportive environment where teens can reconnect with themselves and rebuild healthy relationships with success, self-worth and stress.

Editor’s note: Patrick Buehl is executive director at Horizon Recovery, which has locations in Glendale, Peoria, Phoenix and Scottsdale. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.