Anxiety in children

Overview

Anxiety is a feeling of worry, fear, or nervousness. It's normal for children to feel anxious sometimes, like before a test or moving to a new school. But when anxiety is very strong, lasts a long time, and stops a child from doing everyday things, it may be a condition that needs help.

Yes, anxiety is very common in children. About 1 in 10 children and young people experience an anxiety condition.

Anxiety can affect children of all ages, from preschoolers to teenagers. It is slightly more common in girls than boys, but boys can be affected too.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling worried or scared most of the time
• Trouble sleeping or having nightmares
• Avoiding situations that cause worry
• Feeling restless or on edge
• Having a racing heart or sweating a lot

Symptoms in children

• Frequent tummy aches or headaches with no clear cause
• Clinging to parents or crying when separated
• Refusing to go to school
• Angry outbursts or meltdowns
• Trouble concentrating or being very quiet

Causes

Main causes

• Genetics – anxiety can run in families
• Brain chemistry – how the brain processes fear and stress
• Life events – such as bullying, moving home, or loss of a loved one
• Learned behavior – children can pick up anxious habits from parents or others

Risk factors

• Having a parent or close family member with anxiety or depression
• Being shy or sensitive as a toddler
• Going through a big change like starting school or parents divorcing
• Experiencing trauma or abuse

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your child is in immediate danger of harming themselves or others
• If your child has stopped eating or drinking completely
• If your child is having severe panic attacks that don't improve

Book a routine appointment if:

• If your child's anxiety is affecting their schoolwork or friendships
• If your child is avoiding everyday activities because of fear
• If your child's anxiety lasts for more than a few weeks

Diagnosis

A doctor or mental health professional will talk with you and your child about the feelings and behaviors. They may ask questions to understand how long the anxiety has been there and how it affects life.

Tests that may be done

• A conversation (no needles or tests)
• Questionnaires or checklists for you and your child to fill out
• Sometimes the doctor will do a check-up to rule out other medical causes

What to expect at your appointment

The appointment is usually a relaxed chat. The professional will listen without judgment and work with you to decide the best next steps. You and your child are a team in this.

Treatment

Treatment for childhood anxiety often starts with talking therapies, where children learn skills to manage their worries. Medicines are sometimes used for older children or when therapy alone isn't enough, but this is always under a doctor's guidance.

Self-care at home

• Encourage your child to talk about their feelings openly without pressure
• Create a calm and predictable routine at home
• Help your child practice slow breathing or relaxation exercises together
• Praise small steps of bravery and don't punish avoidance

Medical treatments

If therapy is not enough, a doctor may recommend a type of medication that helps balance brain chemicals. These are only prescribed after a careful discussion of benefits and risks, and are usually used for older children or teenagers. Always follow the doctor's advice.

Living with this condition

Living with anxiety means supporting your child through good days and bad days. It's about building trust, listening, and helping them face fears little by little. Recovery is a journey, not a race.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a regular sleep schedule – lack of sleep can make anxiety worse
• Reduce screen time, especially before bed
• Encourage hobbies and activities that your child enjoys
• Limit caffeine and sugary foods

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps overall health. Physical activity – like playing outside, swimming, or dancing – can improve mood and reduce anxiety naturally.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Anxiety can also affect your child's confidence, friendships, and happiness. It is important to treat it seriously and with kindness, as this will help your child feel supported and understood.

Prevention

Anxiety cannot always be prevented, but you can reduce the impact. Building a strong, loving relationship, teaching calm coping skills, and keeping life as steady as possible can help your child be more resilient.

Complications

If left untreated

• Difficulty making friends or keeping up at school
• Increased risk of depression or other mental health issues in the future
• Physical health problems from long-term stress, like stomach issues or high blood pressure

Long-term outlook

With the right support, most children learn to manage their anxiety well. Many children go on to live happy, active lives. Early help makes a big difference, and it's never too late to start.

Find support

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