Does My Child Have Anxiety?
It could be anxiety if you see:
Excessive worries throughout the day
Consistent worries about specific topics, like social situations, separation from a parent, death, loss, or even benign things like taking a bath.
Your child is startled easily and often, and develops fears about things that startle them, such as loud noises, bugs, sudden movements, or risk-taking
Intense, frequent “shyness” or a shutdown response around peers, unfamiliar adults, or other new social situations
“sticky” thoughts, or thoughts/ideas that they can’t seem to get rid of
What are Some Common Predictors For Anxiety?
Sometimes, it’s inherited. Research does show that anxiety can run in families. Inherited or “genetic” anxiety can be described as a more anxious, perceptive neurotype. You’d typically see sensitivity from an early age, perhaps even as an infant your child may have difficulty soothing, get startled easily, or seem preoccupied or worried about injuries, risk-taking, or separation during toddlerhood.
Other times, anxiety can occur during times of stress, such as during family stress like a divorce or separation, or an ongoing stressor such as financial stressors, having a sibling with special needs, or while experiencing medical trauma or distress.
Parents of kids with fears, worries, or anxiety can use the polyvagal chart for parents daily to learn how your child is feeling and what they need
Anxiety is a common issue that affects people of all ages, including kids. As a parent, it's important to know what can cause anxiety in children so that you can help them get the support they need. Let's take a look at some of the most common causes:
Family history
Anxiety can run in families, so if you or your partner have had anxiety disorders, your child may be more prone to anxiety too. But don't worry, there are plenty of ways to manage anxiety and help your child feel better!
Stressful events
Trauma, abuse, neglect, and other stressful events can contribute to anxiety in kids. If your child has been through something difficult, they may need extra support to cope.
Brain chemistry
Anxiety is thought to be caused by imbalances in brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Some children may be more prone to anxiety because of these imbalances, but there are ways to manage it.
Personality
Every child is unique, and some children may be more naturally anxious than others. Children who are naturally shy or sensitive may be more prone to anxiety, but with your support, they can learn to manage it.
Life changes
Big changes like moving to a new school or going through a family member's divorce can be tough for kids, and they may feel anxious as a result. It's important to give them extra love and support during these times.
High standards
Some children have really high expectations for themselves and worry about not meeting those expectations. If your child is a perfectionist, they may be more prone to anxiety, but there are ways to help them manage it.
Overprotective parenting
While it's important to keep your child safe, being too overprotective can actually contribute to anxiety. It's important to find a balance between keeping your child safe and allowing them to explore and learn.
Remember, anxiety is a complex condition with many possible causes. If you're concerned about your child's anxiety, talk to a healthcare provider or a mental health professional. With the right support and treatment, most children with anxiety can learn manage their fears and worries and feel confident and successful.
What Do I Do If I See My Child Struggling With Anxiety, Fears, Or Worries?
As a parent, seeing your child struggle with anxiety can be distressing. Anxiety can make your child feel overwhelmed, irritable, and stressed, and it can affect their daily life. But as a parent, you can help your child manage their anxiety and support them through their struggles. Here are some tips on how to help your child manage anxiety:
Be a good listener: One of the most important things you can do for your child is to be a good listener. Encourage your child to talk about their feelings and listen to them without judgment or criticism. Show empathy and validate their feelings.
Teach relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques can help your child reduce their anxiety. Deep breathing, mindfulness exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation are all effective techniques that can help your child calm down and reduce their anxiety.
Encourage physical activity: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. Encourage your child to participate in sports, dance, or other physical activities that they enjoy. Physical activity can also help your child build confidence and self-esteem, which can help reduce anxiety.
Provide a stable environment: A stable and predictable environment can help your child feel safe and secure. Try to maintain routines and provide a sense of structure. This can help your child feel more in control and reduce their anxiety.
Model healthy coping strategies: Children learn by watching their parents. If you model healthy coping strategies such as problem-solving and positive self-talk, your child is more likely to adopt these behaviors as well. Show your child how to handle stress and anxiety in a healthy way.
Seek professional help if necessary: If your child's anxiety is interfering with their daily life or causing them significant distress, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. A therapist can help your child learn coping strategies and provide support as they work through their anxiety.
Remember that every child is different, and what works for one child may not work for another. Be patient and persistent in your efforts to help your child manage their anxiety, and reach out to a local therapist if you feel that you and your child need additional support.