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a parent with their anxious child

When To Worry About Child Anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal emotion that we all experience from time to time and, as adults, we are mostly equipped to deal with it.

For children, anxiety can be especially tricky because they may not have the words to express what they're feeling. a parent with their anxious child

As a parent, it's important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of child anxiety so that, if it ever does come up, you're prepared to help your child through difficult times.

Here are some signs to look out for:

1. Your child is scared of things that don't normally scare them.

Along with a healthy dose of fearlessness, most children also tend to be quite curious.

So, if your child starts to show an irrational fear of things that they used to be okay with (like dogs, the dark, going to school), it could be a sign that they're struggling with anxiety.

2. Your child is having trouble sleeping.

Anxiety can manifest in different ways for different people, but one common symptom is insomnia.

If your child is suddenly having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, it may be a sign that they are anxious.

3. Your child is behaving differently at school.

If your child was previously doing well in school but has started to exhibit disruptive behavior or has begun to perform poorly academically, it may be due to anxiety.

4. Your child is withdrawing from friends and activities.

If your child suddenly seems uninterested in hanging out with their friends or participating in activities they used to love, it may be a sign that they are feeling anxious.

5. Your child is having physical symptoms.

Anxiety can also manifests itself through physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, and fatigue.

If your child starts complaining of these kinds of ailments with no obvious cause, it may be due to anxiety.

6. They're always asking you for reassurance about things or they seem clingy.

If your child is constantly asking you for reassurance that everything is okay or they seem unusually clingy, it may be a sign that they are struggling with anxiety.

If you notice any of these signs in your child, it's important to talk to them about what they're experiencing.

Let them know that it's normal to feel anxious sometimes and assure them that you're there to help.

If the anxiety seems to be impacting your child's day-to-day life, it may be time to seek professional help.

A therapist can work with your child to help them manage their anxiety and get back to enjoying their childhood.

Related: Does Not Having A Father Affect A Child?

What To Say To A Child With Anxiety?

The best thing you can do for someone with anxiety is to talk with them and the same goes for your child - they may not have the words to express what they're feeling but that doesn't mean they don't want to talk about it.

Here are some things you can say to your child if they're struggling with anxiety:

"I'm here for you."

Let them know that you're available to talk whenever they need and that you'll do your best to understand what they're going through.

"It's normal to feel anxious sometimes."

Reassure them that anxiety is a normal emotion and everyone experiences it from time to time.

"I'm sorry you're feeling this way."

Expressing empathy will let them know that you understand how difficult it must be for them and that you care.

"What can I do to help?"

Offer your help and support in any way you can, whether it's running errands for them on days when they're feeling particularly anxious or just being there to listen.

If you're not sure what to say, simply letting your child know that you love them and are there for them can be enough.

Sometimes, just having someone to talk to who understands can make all the difference.

Child Anxiety Treatment

If your child's anxiety is starting to impact their everyday life, it may be time to seek professional help.

A therapist can work with your child to help them understand and manage their anxiety.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common type of therapy used to treat anxiety.

CBT focuses on helping people identify and change the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their anxiety.

Exposure therapy is another effective treatment for anxiety. This type of therapy involves gradually exposing someone to the thing they're afraid of until they no longer feel anxious about it.

Depending on your child's individual needs, their therapist may recommend one or both of these types of therapy.

Medication may also be an option if your child's anxiety is severe.

Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety.

Your child's doctor can talk with you about the risks and benefits of medication and help you to decide if it's the right treatment for your child.

Anxiety can be a difficult thing to deal with but with the right support, your child can learn to manage their anxiety and live a happy, healthy life.

FAQ's:

What happens if anxiety is left untreated in children?

If anxiety is left untreated, it can lead to more severe problems such as depression, substance abuse, and suicide.

How do I know if my child's anxiety is normal?

It's normal for children to feel anxious sometimes but if the anxiety is interfering with their day-to-day life, it may be time to seek professional help.

What should I do if my child is showing signs of anxiety?

The best thing you can do is talk to your child about what they're experiencing. Let them know that it's normal to feel anxious sometimes and offer your support. If the anxiety seems to be impacting their everyday life, you may want to seek professional help.

What is severe anxiety in a child?

Severe anxiety is when the anxiety is so intense that it interferes with the child's ability to function in everyday life.

Can children outgrow anxiety?

Yes, children can outgrow anxiety but it often depends on the severity of the anxiety and whether or not they receive treatment.

Should I medicate my anxious child?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Medication may be an option if your child's anxiety is severe but it's important to talk to your child's doctor about the risks and benefits before making a decision. If you have any further questions about when to worry about child anxiety, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for guidance.

Wrapping Up:

Anxiety in children can be a cause for concern, but there are ways to help them. If you are worried about your child’s anxiety, please consult with a healthcare professional.

There is no shame in seeking help and support when it comes to your child’s mental health.

Thank you for reading our blog post on child anxiety. We hope that this information has been helpful and informative.

Do You Need Help?

If you do, your first port of call should be Psychology Today.

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