Anxiety in Children

Feeling worried is a normal part of life, but as parents and carers it can be difficult to know the difference between normal worries and when it becomes something more in our children. 

Anxiety can be short lived and something most of us will have experienced in life: being worried about being liked, worrying about school work, nervousness when saying goodbye at school. 

But sometimes that worry, or anxiety, may be felt more often and more powerfully. This may present as anxious feelings that don't go away, feelings that seem to be out of proportion to the situation or starting to avoid places or people. 

If you child is often anxious, they might:

• try to avoid situations they are worried about (eg school refusal)
• get headaches and stomach aches
• have trouble sleeping or vivid nightmares
• worry often
• need a lot of reassurance
• want things to be perfect and get upset if they aren't

There are many ways you can assist your child if you think they have anxiety, including acknowledging their fears, gently encouraging your child to do things they're anxious about and avoiding labelling your child as 'shy' or 'anxious'.

If you are concerned about anxiety in your child see you doctor, a psychologist or a mental health service. You can find more information and resources here.