Recognizing Anxiety in Children & How to Help

Anxiety is a normal part of life, even for children. However, when anxiety becomes overwhelming and begins to interfere with daily activities, it’s important for parents and caregivers to recognize the signs and know how to help.

Signs of Anxiety in Children

Children may not always have the words to express their worries, so anxiety can manifest in a variety of ways. Common signs include:

• Physical Symptoms: Frequent stomachaches, headaches, muscle tension, or trouble sleeping

• Emotional Signs: Excessive worry, fearfulness, or frequent meltdowns

• Behavioral Changes: Avoiding certain places or activities, becoming overly clingy, or experiencing sudden outbursts

• Academic Impact: Trouble focusing, perfectionism, or declining school performance

• Social Difficulties: Withdrawal from friends, trouble speaking in certain situations, or fear of being away from parents

How to Support a Child with Anxiety

If you notice signs of anxiety in your child, here are some ways to help:

1. Validate Their Feelings
   Let your child know that their feelings are real and okay. Avoid dismissing their fears, and instead, acknowledge their emotions: “I see that you’re feeling worried about this. I’m here to help.”

2. Encourage Healthy Coping Strategies
   Teach your child calming techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness exercises. Having a set of coping skills can empower them when they feel anxious.

3. Maintain Routines
   Predictability can be comforting. Keeping consistent routines for bedtime, meals, and daily activities can help reduce uncertainty and provide a sense of stability.

4. Help Them Face Fears Gradually
   Avoiding anxiety-provoking situations can reinforce fears. Instead, encourage gradual exposure in a supportive way. Celebrate small steps toward facing their fears.

5. Model Calm Behavior
   Children often take cues from adults. Show them how to manage stress in healthy ways, whether it’s practicing self-care, using relaxation techniques, or calmly working through challenges.

6. Encourage Open Communication
   Create a safe space where your child feels comfortable discussing their worries. Encourage them to express their thoughts through conversation, drawing, or journaling.

7. Seek Professional Support if Needed
   If anxiety is significantly impacting your child’s daily life, a mental health professional specializing in child therapy can help. Play therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and parent coaching can be effective in supporting anxious children.

Recognizing and addressing childhood anxiety early can make a meaningful difference in a child’s emotional well-being. With patience, understanding, and the right support, children can learn to navigate their fears and develop confidence in managing their emotions. If you’re concerned about your child’s anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for guidance.

Looking for support? RW Play at Rivertown Wellness specializes in child therapy and parenting support. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!