Learning to Recognize Child Anxiety Symptoms

Many of us think of anxiety as something that primarily affects adults. While it’s true that anxiety is the number one mental health condition in the world for adults, that doesn’t mean children are immune.

In fact, the CDC states that 9.4% of kids in the U.S. had been diagnosed with anxiety between 2016 and 2019.

Things like unexpected losses, divorce, negative home experiences, or even peer pressure can contribute to a child’s anxiety. Understanding the source is important, but recognizing the signs is often more critical. When you know some of the common child anxiety symptoms, you can get your child the help they need and deserve sooner.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the most notable symptoms of anxiety in children. 

Excessive Worry

Perhaps the most obvious sign of anxiety in children is extreme worry. Unfortunately, kids aren’t always the best at expressing their feelings. They might not even fully understand their own emotions, so they might not readily be able to tell you that their worries run deep.

But if your child consistently talks about being scared or afraid, encourage them to open up about those feelings. Ask them what causes their fear. Learning more about their triggers can help you provide comfort and reassurance. It can also help you both better understand the emotions they’re dealing with.

Difficulty Sleeping

It’s essential for kids to get enough sleep, so when your child has a hard time falling or staying asleep, consider it a red flag. 

They might wake up because of nightmares. Or, they might have difficulty falling asleep unless you’re lying with them. Either situation can make for long, exhausting nights for both of you. Unfortunately, anxiety can become worse at night — even for children. Being alone with their thoughts is scary, and they can feel lonely.

Physical Symptoms

Anxiety is a mental health condition, but it can certainly manifest itself through physical symptoms. Hearing your child say they don’t feel good will always be concerning as a parent. But, if they seem to have consistent stomach, head, or muscle aches, consider any additional signs and symptoms of anxiety they might be exhibiting. It’s not uncommon for kids with anxiety to feel so anxious that they literally make themselves sick. 

Not Wanting to Go to School

Some children struggle with anxiety so much that they might start to withdraw from things they typically enjoy. That’s especially true if they’re dealing with separation anxiety. When that’s the case, they might argue about going to school, so much so that they feel sick or start to tremble.

Anxiety can also cause them to become restless. So, even when they go to school, it might be difficult for them to focus or sit still. Obviously, the longer these symptoms continue, the greater the impact on their education and the social skills that come from developing peer relationships during these formative years.

What Can You Do?

As a parent or caregiver, it’s not easy to see your child dealing with anxiety. However, being vigilant and paying attention to some of these symptoms will make it easier for you to step in sooner.

Talk to your child. Even if they can’t fully communicate what they’re feeling — or why — opening the lines of communication will give you a better idea of what they’re dealing with. Provide as much comfort and reassurance as possible, and reassure them that their feelings are valid.

One of the best things you can do for your child is to seek out the help of a mental health professional. A therapist will make it easier for both you and your child to understand where the anxiety is stemming from. They’ll also provide active steps you both can take to manage symptoms and eventually overcome anxious thoughts. 

Don’t hesitate to get your child the help they need. Contact our team to set up an appointment soon.