Childhood Anxiety

Anxiety is a normal and often healthy emotion. It can help us stay alert and focused when we face danger. But when anxiety becomes excessive or persistent, it can interfere with a child’s daily life.

It might manifest as:

• Excessive worry
• Fear of specific things, such as social situations, animals, or the dark
• Difficulty sleeping
• Stomach problems
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Avoiding certain activities or situations

How you can help:

• Be relatable and model healthy coping mechanisms. Let them know that mighty YOU also have fears and anxiety. Children learn by watching you. Show your child how you manage your own stress and anxiety in a healthy way.
• Identify triggers. Once you know what triggers your child’s anxiety, you can start to develop strategies for coping. For example, if your child is anxious about social situations, you can practice talking to people in a safe and supportive environment.
• Validate and empathize. Let your child know that it’s okay to feel anxious. Reassure them that you’re there for them and that you’ll help them get through it.
• Challenge unhelpful thinking. Help your child identify and challenge any negative thoughts or beliefs they have about themselves or the situation. For example, if your child is anxious about giving a presentation in school, you can help them to reframe their thoughts from “I’m going to mess up” to “I’m prepared and I can do this.”
• Teach coping skills. There are a number of coping skills that can help children manage anxiety, such as deep breathing, relaxation techniques, and mindfulness. You can teach your child these skills at home or work with a therapist.
• Encourage exposure. One of the best ways to overcome anxiety is to gradually expose yourself to the things you’re afraid of. Start with small steps and work your way up to more challenging situations. For example, if your child is anxious about going to the park, you could start by sitting on a bench outside the park and gradually work your way up to going inside the park and playing on the equipment.
• Avoid reinforcing your child’s anxiety. If your child avoids something because it makes them anxious, don’t give in. Encourage them to face their fears gradually.
• Celebrate your child’s successes. When your child makes progress in managing their anxiety, be sure to praise them. This will help them to feel more confident and motivated.

If your child’s anxiety is severe or not responding to home-based interventions, it’s important to seek professional help. A therapist or Daddio Coach can teach your child additional coping skills and help them to develop a treatment plan.

You’re not alone. Many children struggle with anxiety at some point in their lives. What’s important is that you walk through it with them.