Wellbeing

What is anxiety?

Many parents are confused about the nature of anxiety and especially, when to really worry about it. Anxiety refers to feelings of worry, nervousness, or a sense of apprehension, typically about an upcoming event where the outcome is uncertain, or where a young person feels he or she might not be up to the task.

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) defines anxiety as ‘commonly experienced in high pressure situations, for example, prior to a making a speech or sitting an exam. Feelings of anxiety can also arise following a stressful event, like an accident where the person is left feeling shaken. Anxious feelings are usually accompanied by physical sensations such as a churning stomach, light headedness, and a racing heart.’

Signs and symptoms according to the APS

Although the experience of anxiety will vary from person to person, feeling stressed, worried, and having anxious thoughts are common symptoms. Other common symptoms of anxiety include:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Restlessness
• Avoidance behaviour
• Rapid heartbeat
• Trembling or shaking
• Feeling lightheaded or faint
• Numbness or tingling sensations
• Upset stomach or nausea
• Sweating

Anxiety disorders can start early in childhood or adolescence. It may only have a moderate impact on a child’s ability to function in daily life and can therefore often remain undetected. If a child finds it extremely difficult to control their anxiety, then you should seek help or medical assistance. 

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