Everybody has worries, even children. But sometimes simple worries can grow bigger and bigger until it feels like your child is worrying about everything. You might even be asking yourself: Is this just normal worry, or could it be anxiety?
This post will cover the key signs of anxiety in children that parents should watch for to help determine if additional support is needed.
Normal Worry vs. Anxiety
Everyone gets worried from time to time, and kids are no different. These worries often change from day to day: Will I get to school on time? Did I do okay on my math test? Will there be enough of my favorite snack after school?
These are what I consider normal worries in children. They don’t interfere with daily life. Your child is still going to school, spending time with friends, and doing the things they enjoy, they’re just worried about things that matter to them.
When worry begins to interfere with a child’s daily living, that’s when it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional.
Signs Your Child’s Worry Might Be Anxiety
I’m commonly asked: What are the most common signs of anxiety in kids? From my clinical experience, the most frequent things I see include:
- Racing thoughts: kids saying their brain “won’t stop” or they can’t calm down enough to sleep.
- Worrying about their worries: one of the strongest indicators is when a child feels anxious about being anxious. For example, saying they’re scared to even tell you what they’re thinking.
- School refusal: avoiding or refusing school, or frequent visits to the nurse.
- Sleep difficulties: sleeping much more or less than usual, or lying awake at night with a busy mind.
- Changes in appetite or mood: eating much more or less, becoming withdrawn, irritable, or “prickly.”
- Physical symptoms: frequent stomachaches, headaches, a racing heart, or muscle tension.
- Reassurance seeking: repeatedly asking, Is this okay? Did I do this right? What’s the plan for today? Even when they already know the answer.
- Avoidance: staying away from friends, activities, or situations they once loved.
If you’ve ever wondered how do I know if my child’s anxiety is serious, the truth is you know your child best. If they’re not acting like themselves, it’s worth getting them checked out. Sometimes just a few sessions with a professional can help a child feel confident and brave again.
Why Early Support Matters
Research shows that untreated anxiety can negatively affect a child’s school performance, friendships, and self-esteem. The earlier children receive support, the better their long-term outcomes.
How Parents Can Support an Anxious Child
Many parents ask me: What can I do when I recognize my child is anxious?
Some helpful steps include:
- Find professional help: start by connecting with a child psychologist or mental health provider who specializes in anxiety.
- Keep communication open: talk with your child about their feelings and listen without judgment.
- Track symptoms: notice patterns and bring observations to your provider.
- Collaborate with teachers: work with school staff so your child feels supported across settings.
- Validate feelings: let your child know it’s okay to feel anxious and that they’re not alone.
Finding Support
If your child is struggling with anxiety and you’re in New Hampshire or Vermont, I provide in-person therapy for anxious children, teens, and college students in the Upper Valley. Thanks to PSYPACT, I’m also able to work with children, teens, and college students in more than 40 states through secure telehealth.
