Anxiety in Kids
If a child has persistent feelings of worry and fear, it could be anxiety. Let’s explore what anxiety is and how you can support your child to overcome it.
When anxiety becomes a problem for your child
Some level of anxiety is a normal part of life and growing up. But if your child is anxious for long periods of time then it could be a problem.
It’s natural for kids to experience anxiety when faced with new or stressful situations and it doesn’t mean that they will develop an anxiety disorder.
With some reassurance and support, these worries don’t last long and kids will learn the skills they need to cope. However, if these worries don’t lessen over time or get worse, it could be a sign of a developing anxiety disorder.
Your child may need some extra support with their anxiety if:
- They seem to be more anxious than other children their age
- They feel anxious often and the anxiety is intense
- Their fears and worries seem out of proportion to what they’re facing
- It stops them from participating in activities or day-to-day tasks
- They have feelings of panic and/or panic attacks
- They avoid anything that might trigger their anxiety
- The anxiety stops them from doing things other children their age do
Signs your child might be experiencing anxiety
As a parent, it's important to be aware of some of the signs of anxiety and how they might appear in your child so you know when to intervene.
Here are some signs that your child might have anxiety:
- Worries most days and for long periods of time
- Complains of stomach pains or headaches when they feel uneasy about something
- Clings to you and seeks reassurance often
- Tries to avoid situations that they feel worried or scared about
- Has lots of fears, dislikes taking risks or trying new things
- Worries about making mistakes and doing things the wrong way
- Thinking about the situation makes them more worried and tense
- Inability to control fear or worry, asks lots of “what if?” questions
- Irritable, tired and has difficulty concentrating
- Asks for help with things they can do for themselves - “will you do it for me?”
- Gets upset easily, especially over small things
- Trouble sleeping at night - won’t go to sleep alone or experiences nightmares
- Their worries and fears are out of proportion to the situation
- Tries to get others to do the things they’re worried about - “will you tell them for me?”
- Always sees the dangerous or negative side of things
- Physical symptoms like muscle tension, sweating and diarrhoea
"Anxiety disorders are one of the most common types of mental health concerns in kids, with around 7% of Australian children experiencing some type of anxiety disorder"
– Sky, Parentline Counsellor