Dr. Zyer Beaty is a therapist, counselor educator, and advocate for intentional wellness. Zyer founded Dr. Z Therapy and Coaching, a private practice centering holistic wellness and psychoeducation. As a professor and former school counselor, her research in global education and mental health enriches her innovative work in the field.
Anxiety in children is more common than many people realize. According to data from 2016-2019, 9.4% of children and teens aged 1-17 years (approximately 5.8 million) were diagnosed with anxiety, and of these, 32.3% of them experienced depression (National Survey of Children’s Health). These statistics only capture those who have been diagnosed–many more children remain undiagnosed, untreated, and silently struggling.
As a parent or caregiver, it can be challenging to identify when your child is dealing with anxiety. Understanding the signs of anxiety and knowing how to support them is critical to helping them cope and thrive.
What does anxiety look like in children?
Anxiety can manifest differently in each child, making it hard to recognize at first. The film Inside Out 2 depicts the whirlwind of emotions associated with anxiety. In the film, “Anxiety” is introduced as a new emotion and quickly becomes best friends with “Fear”. Together, they drive much of the emotional turmoil that the character Riley faces as she transitions into high school. Fear fuels Anxiety, and throughout the movie, we see how this pairing begins to take control of Riley's thoughts and actions. Much like Riley, children dealing with anxiety often struggle to balance overwhelming feelings that seem to take over. While it’s essential to have a mental health professional diagnose anxiety, there are common signs that may indicate your child is experiencing anxiety. Below are seven signs to watch for:
1. Physical symptoms
Anxiety often shows up in children through physical symptoms. If your child frequently complains of headaches, stomachaches, rapid heart rate, sweating, or fatigue, anxiety may be the cause. In some cases, children may experience panic attacks, which can involve shortness of breath, dizziness, and heart palpitations. These symptoms can mimic other medical conditions, so it's important to monitor any patterns and seek medical advice if necessary.
2. Avoidance behaviors
Avoidance is a common coping mechanism for children with anxiety. They may avoid social situations, stay home from school, or make excuses to skip activities that make them feel anxious. For instance, a child who fears public speaking may try to avoid going to school on days when they have to present. If you notice a pattern of avoidance that disrupts their daily routine, this could be a sign of underlying anxiety.
3. Excessive worry
All children worry from time to time, but kids with anxiety often experience excessive, uncontrollable worry. They may be overly concerned about school performance, personal safety, or social interactions. In many cases, their fears may seem irrational or be about things they cannot control. You might notice them frequently seeking reassurance from you, teachers, or friends, as they look for comfort in uncertain situations.
4. Irritability and mood swings
Children with anxiety can sometimes seem irritable or moody, even over minor issues. They may become easily frustrated or upset by things that wouldn’t typically cause such strong reactions. If your child appears to have a shorter fuse than usual or responds disproportionately to small challenges, anxiety may be at play. These mood swings are often a result of internal stress and can affect their relationships at home and school.
5. Restlessness and fidgeting
Restlessness is another common sign of anxiety. If your child struggles to sit still, constantly fidgets, or seems unable to relax, anxiety could be contributing to their discomfort. They may pace, tap their fingers, or fiddle with objects when anxious. Difficulty concentrating or focusing in class due to restlessness can also affect their academic performance.
6. Perfectionism
Some children with anxiety develop perfectionist tendencies. They may become overly focused on avoiding mistakes and spend excessive time on homework or assignments out of fear that their work isn’t "good enough." If your child seems unusually upset by minor setbacks or worries obsessively about being perfect, this could be a red flag for anxiety.
7. Social withdrawal
Anxiety can make social situations feel overwhelming, leading children to withdraw from friends, family, and activities they once enjoyed. You may notice your child isolating themselves, avoiding conversations, or being overly quiet in social settings. Difficulty making or maintaining friendships due to shyness or fear of judgment is also common in children experiencing anxiety.
When to seek professional help
These signs are just some of the ways anxiety may show up in your child. If you notice any of these behaviors consistently, it may be time to consult with a mental health professional. Early intervention is key to helping your child manage their anxiety and prevent it from interfering with their everyday life.
By staying attuned to your child’s emotional and physical needs, you can provide them with the support they need to navigate anxiety.
Read more from Zyer Beaty
Zyer Beaty, PhD, LPC, Dr. Z Therapy and Coaching
Dr. Zyer Beaty, a therapist, counselor educator, and wellness advocate, founded Dr. Z Therapy and Coaching, a haven for holistic well-being and psychoeducation. Leveraging her roles as a current professor and former school counselor, Zyer blends innovative methods with insights from global education and mental health research. Specializing in assisting various demographics, she addresses issues like ADHD, depression, and life transitions. Her mission centers on guiding individuals towards authentic, unapologetic living. Dr. Zyer fosters an inclusive environment where everyone can uncover value and purpose in their journey, advocating holistic care and personal empowerment.
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