As adults, we know what anxiety feels like. We’ve learned what scenarios risk making us anxious and, hopefully, have some tools to help us manage it. Anxiety in childhood is an entirely different beast. According to a recent survey from the CDC, roughly 20% of children reported feeling anxious in the last two weeks (National Center for Health Statistics, 2025). Children and teens lack the development, experience and awareness to be able to recognize and manage their anxiety. Unfortunately, anxiety is a part of our everyday lives in both childhood and adulthood. The good news is our children don’t have to wade through their anxiety alone. Today we want to learn: what anxiety is, what the symptoms look like and what the treatments are available.
What is Anxiety?
In its simplest form, anxiety is worry. Anxiety in children can also look like, “the
overwhelming fear, worry, or angst…and can interfere with a teenager’s daily functioning and overall quality of life” (
helpguide.org, 2024)
.
Some children can also have difficulty accepting uncertainties in life and produce an overactive response to life’s threats (childmind.org, 2018). The Mayo Clinic reminds us that it is normal to have anxiety, however, when it becomes “intense, excessive and persistent” then it may have crossed over into an anxiety disorder and may need additional, professional support to manage (mayoclinic.org, 2018).
Anxiety disorders have been categorized into six different types of anxiety:
- Separation Anxiety
- Social Anxiety
- Selective Mutism
- Generalized Anxiety
- Specific phobias
- Panic Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, also falls under the anxiety category as it is the uncontrollable feeling to repeat behaviors because of extreme worrying. It is also a possibility for children and teens to have more than one anxiety disorder (helpguide.org, 2024).
What are the symptoms of anxiety?
Anxiety symptoms may manifest differently from children to teens. In children you may see crying, shyness or difficulty making friends, difficulty concentrating, irritability or angry outbursts. For teenagers you may see withdrawal or self-isolation, irritability, difficulty in school, sleep problems, substance abuse, a constant need of reassurance (helpguide.org, 2024). Additionally, the Mayo Clinic notes these symptoms of anxiety: sweating, increased heart rate, gastrointestinal problems, weak, tired and restless (mayoclinic.org, 2018). One key difference between children and teens, when it comes to anxiety, is how they express it. A child is more likely to outwardly express their anxiety whereas a teen may retreat and not reveal their struggles. It is unlikely that your child has the language and awareness to know that they’re experiencing anxiety. It is important to be in tune with your children so you can help them recognize and label the signs of anxiety so you can work together to manage it and get them support, if needed.
How can we treat anxiety?
While anxiety is very common for both children and adults it is also highly treatable. If you suspect your child may be struggling with anxious feelings, the first step would be to see a healthcare provider that can address what anxiety your child or teenager is experiencing. A therapist or counselor can also help your child know what treatment is best suited for them. Some providers may recommend ERP, or exposure and response therapy, that will, in time and with steps, allow your child to face and take control of their fear or anxiety. Managing anxiety through medication, such as an SSRI, can also be beneficial. In addition to therapy and medication, Psychology Today recommends the following mindfulness tips that can help manage anxious feelings:
- positive affirmations
- yoga or meditation
- deep breaths
- soothing sounds and lights
(psychologytoday.com, 2024).
Through talk therapy, medication and mindfulness, anxiety can be very manageable. Suffering through anxiety doesn’t have to be your child’s reality. Some kids may alleviate their anxiety by simply expressing their concerns and worries to you. As always, we are here to help and support you. If you think your child may be struggling, reach out to us to schedule an appointment today. Our team sees children as young as three and can assist with everything from anxiety and depression to trauma and managing peer relationships.
Sources
National Center for Health Statistics
Anxiety in Children and Teens: A Parent’s Guide – HelpGuide.org
Understanding Anxiety in Children and Teens – Child Mind Institute
Anxiety disorders – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
A fantastic related article to read and work on with your child
https://anxietycoach.mayoclinic.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Relaxation-for-Kids.pdf
