All children experience irrational fears from time to time, and this type of anxiety can actually be beneficial, helping kids to make safe choices (like crossing the street while looking both ways) and perform well in certain situations (studying before taking a test). It’s not until these fears become excessive and prevent a child from enjoying life that they need to seek help.
Anxiety can manifest in a number of ways, from physical symptoms like stomachaches and headaches to emotional or behavioral changes. Kids may have a hard time concentrating or sleeping and are often reluctant to socialize. They might also show aggression or irritability and express a lack of self-confidence. In some cases, they might even withdraw from their friends or family to avoid anxiety-provoking situations.
A few specific anxiety disorders that kids might suffer from include:
Social anxiety disorder: Kids with this condition are intensely fearful of social situations with other people, such as acting in a school play or speaking to their class. They might also have a fear of being judged or embarrassed in public.
Separation anxiety disorder: Kids with this condition have severe fear and worry about being separated from their parents or caregivers. They might be afraid to leave home or go to a friend’s house because they don’t want to be left alone.
Panic disorder: Children who have a panic attack have a sudden and intense feeling of anxiety that comes with a strong body response, such as trembling, heart racing or shortness of breath. It’s a lot like a seizure, and it can lead to a fear of dying or losing control.
Posttraumatic stress disorder: This condition is triggered by a traumatic event and can cause a child to feel intense fear or anxiety about recurring situations, such as going to school. They might also have trouble falling or staying asleep, feel emotional numbness and have difficulty concentrating.
Talk therapy: This is a form of counseling that has been shown to reduce the symptoms of anxiety. A therapist will work with your child to teach her the skills and techniques she can use on her own to help ease her fears. She’ll learn to recognize and replace negative thought patterns with positive ones, as well as how to deal with her physical reactions to stress.
Healthy lifestyles:
Try to ensure your child gets enough sleep and exercise. Being active improves mental health, and sleep helps with stress and mood. You should also limit screen time, as the content on screens can trigger anxiety in many children. In addition, a healthy diet is good for the mind and body.