It’s normal for children to feel worried or anxious from time to time – such as when they’re starting school or nursery, or moving to a new area. However, it becomes a concern when it begins to affect their behaviour and thoughts every day, interfering with their school, home and social life.
According to Very well family website states that anxiety in children often show up as physical or behavioural changes which are often the sign of stress and anxiety.
Children often respond differently to stress depending on their age, individual personalities, and coping skills, which can cause many parents to overlook the underlying issues that may be causing their child’s behaviour.
It is important for parents to recognise the signs of childhood stress and to look for possible causes. Parents can usually help children manage stress and anxiety, but some children may have an anxiety disorder and can benefit from professional help.
Symptoms of anxiety in children
Signs to look out for in your child are:
- finding it hard to concentrate
- not sleeping, or waking in the night with bad dreams
- not eating properly
- quickly getting angry or irritable, and being out of control during outbursts
- constantly worrying or having negative thoughts
- feeling tense and fidgety, or using the toilet often
- always crying
- being clingy
- complaining of tummy aches and feeling unwell
Separation anxiety is common in younger children, whereas older children and teenagers tend to worry more about school or have social anxiety.
How to help your anxious child
If your child is having problems with anxiety, there’s plenty you can do to help.
Above all, it’s important to talk to your child about their anxiety or worries.
Many children at different ages may have anxieties that will go away after a while, with your reassurance.
However, it’s a good idea to seek professional help or reassurance yourself if your child is constantly anxious and:
- it’s not getting better, or is getting worse
- self-help is not working
- it’s affecting their school or family life, or their friendships
