- Anxiety is a feeling of uneasiness caused by fear. It can make children feel tense, nervous, or afraid.
- All children feel some anxiety at different stages in their lives. This is normal.
What can cause anxiety in children?
- It is normal for children to feel some anxiety. But if it interferes with their daily lives or with the family, they may need help from a doctor.
- Children often feel anxiety when they have to be separated from a parent or other loved one.
- Children and adolescents may worry about making friends at school, doing well in sports, or getting good grades.
- Some children are afraid to meet new people.
- Children often worry about things that could happen. They think, "What if ..."
- Some children worry about one thing over and over again. For example, a child might constantly worry that someone will forget to pick him up from school.
- Children can feel anxiety if they have low self-esteem (feel bad about themselves).
- Children ages 2-6 are often afraid of make-believe things, such as monsters or being in the dark.
- Children ages 7-12 are often afraid of things that could happen to them, such as getting hurt in a car accident or losing a parent.
What are the symptoms of anxiety?
- Children may be tense or get upset easily.
- They may seek reassurance wanting to be told again and again that they are okay.
- They may not want to take part in activities.
- They may be quiet and withdrawn.
- They may be eager to please.
- Anxiety increases the heart rate and children may sweat.
- The child might have a stomach ache or stomach cramps.
How can I help my child?
- Pay close attention to your child. If his anxiety goes unnoticed, it can lead to bigger problems.
- If you think your child is feeling anxious, talk to him about his fears.
- Teach your child how to rate how afraid he is. Is he very, very afraid, kind of afraid, or just a little afraid? Talking about the fear will help your child control it.
- Do not ignore your child's fears. Acknowledge that they exist. Tell your child that it's okay to be afraid but also try to show why he doesn't have to be afraid. Show him ways he can control his fear.
- Do not give in to your child's fears. For example, if your child is afraid of dogs, don't avoid them. Act normal when you are around dogs. Use it as a chance to teach your child that he does not have to be afraid of them.
- Help your child take small steps to overcome his fears. For example, work toward leaving a night light on instead of a brighter closet light. Or, work toward getting closer and closer to a dog until your child is no longer afraid to pet it.
How long will my child's anxiety last?
- Children usually grow out of their fears. Sometimes they will grow out of an old fear only to start with a new one.
- You should talk to your doctor if your child is unable to overcome his fear or if the anxiety interferes with his daily activities or with the family.
How is anxiety treated?
- The doctor might advise you to take your child to a child or adolescent psychiatrist - a doctor who will help your child talk about his fears and teach him ways to control them.
- Treatment is different for every child.
- It may include talking to only the child about his fears, talking to the child and the family together, medication, teaching the child how he can change his behavior, or talking to teachers about how they can help.
When should I call the doctor?
- Call if your child's anxiety greatly disrupts his social, academic, or personal life.
- Call if you have questions or concerns about your child's health.
