How Do I Know If My Child Has Anxiety?
How Do I Know if My Child Has Anxiety?
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, one in eight children experience anxiety disorders. However, 80 percent of children who can be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder do not receive treatment. Read the full article here.
What is Anxiety Like in Children?
Anxiety can present a bit differently in children compared to adults.
Some symptoms of anxiety in children include:
Frequent complaints about stomach aches or headaches
Appears very sensitive or grouchy
Asks frequent “what if” questions
Worries about things far in the future
Fears being separated from parent(s)
Has frequent nightmares
For more signs and symptoms, click here.
What Can I Do to Help My Child Struggling With Anxiety?
It is normal to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do if you feel like your child is struggling with anxiety.
Here are some things you can to do help your child:
1. Don’t blame yourself
As a parent, you may find yourself feeling like you somehow caused your child to develop anxiety. No matter the reasoning, blaming yourself is not going to help you or your child through this time.
2. Talk to them
Talk to your child and allow them to express how they’re feeling. Opening up conversation with your child helps them to feel heard and supported--a major help to anyone struggling.
3. Reach out to a therapist
If your child is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to find additional support for them. Getting them connected with a therapist early on will help them to work things out, find positive coping skills, and deal more effectively with what’s going on. Reach out to us to get more information about starting therapy.