Anxiety
Anxiety in childhood is a common problem that can cause significant distress for both the child and their family.
Feeling worried or nervous is a natural emotion.
Each type of anxiety can have its own unique symptoms, but some common signs of anxiety in children include:
Excessive worrying or fears about everyday situations or events
Refusing to go to school or participate in activities they used to enjoy
Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, and nausea
Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
Clinging to parents or caregivers
Irritability or easily becoming upset
Avoiding social situations or being excessively self-conscious in social situations
There are many different types of anxiety that can affect children.
Many children feel anxious about things like tests or competitions. Anxiety can show itself in physical symptoms too, including a racing heartbeat and muscle tension. Usually, anxiety is actually helpful. It’s the body’s way of preparing you to deal with stress or keep you alert so you can do your best in challenging situations.
In children and teenagers, anxiety becomes a problem when the feeling is out of proportion to the situation, gets worse over time, and keeps negatively affecting daily life. Excessive anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in children — anxiety disorders affect 30 percent of children.
If you suspect that your child is experiencing anxiety, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Treatment for anxiety in children can include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes such as exercise, relaxation techniques, and a healthy diet. It is also important to provide a supportive and understanding environment for your child and to encourage them to talk openly about their feelings.
We offer in-person and tele-health appointments
Our therapists will determine if tele-health therapy is an appropriate option for your individual needs and circumstances.