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Teen helps peers overcome anxiety
By Staff Writer
As more teenagers battle anxiety disorders, their peers are coming forward and helping them manage the mental illness. Francesca Pileggi is one example of a teen who has been suffering from anxiety since she began grade school, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. She aimed for popularity in high school and eventually found a boyfriend, but lost control of her life after their break-up. Pileggi's anxiety turned into depression, which heightened when her cousin hanged himself in 2005. As the condition began to cripple her, Pileggi sought help to turn her life around. Through cognitive therapy and medication, she can now cope with her anxiety. Pileggi speaks to adolescents on her free time about her own experiences with anxiety and the availability of help. Individuals who suffer from an anxiety disorder typically begin to show symptoms around age 21, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Experts say that a mental illness that is left untreated can develop into a serious condition, such as bipolar disorder and manic depression. Rehabilitation facilities can provide individuals with the help they need to cope with their illness.
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