Private anxiety support for children

Symptoms of anxiety in children and young people

For most children, anxiety is normal and will occur at various times throughout life, particularly at times of transition and change, for example moving schools. But for some, the anxiety may become persistent anxiety causing distress and interfering with daily life. There are different types of anxiety, and all are treatable with the right treatments and support.

Anxiety varies in severity for each child and can affect them both physically as well as emotionally.

Common anxiety symptoms in children and teenagers include:

• persistent worry or fear

• restlessness and agitation

• concentration problems

• appearing irritable

• becoming tearful or clingy

• angry outbursts

• having bad dreams

• avoiding everyday activities

• waking up in the night

• feeling nervous or restless

We all feel anxious at times in response to everyday events. However, when these feelings persist, or if they prevent your child from completing daily tasks and enjoying life, it may indicate an anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorders in children and young people

There are different types of anxiety disorder. On the surface, they can look and feel similar, making it hard to distinguish one from another. Whatever your child is experiencing, we can help them overcome their challenges and regain control.

About anxiety in children and teenagers

What is the difference between fear and anxiety?

There may be overlap in your child experiencing fear or anxiety, making it harder to know when it goes beyond natural and, often helpful, responses to danger. Fear is an emotional response to a real and imminent threat or perceived danger, while anxiety is anticipation of a threat that is not yet present. Fear exists to help us, triggering a fight-or-flight response to remove us from unsafe environments or situations. Anxiety is more often seen in vigilant, cautious, anticipatory or avoidant behaviours in preparation for future danger that may or may not arise.

What causes anxiety in children?

Anxiety in children can arise from a range of factors. Many things can make children feel anxious at different ages. These worries may just stem from the normal worries associated with growing up, or they may be symptoms of an anxiety disorder that could benefit from professional help.

Younger children may experience separation anxiety or social anxiety, while older children may develop anxious feelings due to stress from academic pressures or social relationships.

Some children may be more prone to anxiety due to family history or underlying conditions such as ADHD, autism, or OCD. Identifying and understanding these causes is key to providing effective support and intervention.

How to support children with anxiety

To effectively support children who are experiencing anxiety, it's vital for parents to understand the underlying causes and to work with their child to develop effective coping strategies, which may include:

• Encouraging open communication: Ask your child to express their worries and fears and to open up to you about their thoughts and feelings.

• Establishing a routine: A structured routine can help children feel more secure and in control, providing stability in their daily lives.

• Time to relax: Daily times that children can relax and engage in enjoyable leisure activities without judgement or external demands, for example a personal hobby.

• Engaging in physical activity: Physical activity can help reduce stress and anxiety and boost self-esteem and confidence.

• Seeking professional support: If your child's anxiety is causing significant distress or disruption to their life, it is important to seek the support of a mental health professional. This may include therapy, an assessment, or medication.

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