What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal part of life and can affect anyone, including children. But as parents and carers, it's sometimes hard to know the difference between normal worries and something more serious.

In most cases, anxiety in children is short-lived. The normal things your child may worry about often change, depending on how old they are.

Some examples of normal worries are:

• being shy or worried about making friends and being liked
• being able to learn at school and not feeling 'stupid'
• being upset about being left at childcare or school
• worrying about sleeping with the lights off
• being nervous about public speaking, like reading in front of a class

You can read more about childhood anxieties and fears.

If your child experiences anxiety more intensely and more often than other children, they may have an anxiety disorder. This causes distress and stops them from getting the most out of life, such as at school and socially.

There are several anxiety conditions, or disorders, which can affect children, including:

• phobias
• generalised anxiety disorder
• separation anxiety disorder
• social anxiety disorder
• obsessive-compulsive disorder

What symptoms are related to anxiety in children?

Anxiety can affect each child differently.

The main symptoms of anxiety disorders are having trouble coping with fears and worries, and avoiding places or things associated with the fear. Your child may feel overwhelmed by these anxious thoughts.

If your child is often anxious, they might also:

• have anxiety that seems to be out of proportion to the situation
• enjoy things less
• become clingier
• have big emotions or tantrums
• need a lot of reassurance and take a while to feel better after feeling anxious
• worry about things that you wouldn't expect at their age

They may also experience physical symptoms, like:

• having trouble sleeping or have vivid nightmares
• headaches and stomach aches, especially when away from home
• a loss of appetite
• feeling shaky or jittery

What causes anxiety in children?

There are many things that may increase the chance of your child having anxiety or an anxiety disorder. These may include:

• if they have a family history of anxiety disorders
• if they have experienced trauma or abuse
• if the people around them are experiencing anxiety
• if there has been a death in the family

When should my child see a doctor?

Kids' mental health is important. If your child's anxiety is impacting their life or you are concerned, you can see:

• your doctor
• a psychologist
• a mental health service

How is anxiety in children diagnosed?

Your doctor will ask you and your child about:

• their medical history
• their symptoms
• how their symptoms affect their daily life
• how distressed they are by their fears and symptoms

Your doctor may refer your child to a specialist for assessment and treatment.

How is anxiety in children treated?

Your doctor will talk with you and your child about different options for treating anxiety.

Anxiety disorders in children can be often managed with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for children. CBT is a type of psychological therapy. It can be done face-to-face or online.

Therapy for anxiety disorders can be:

• individual
• in a group
• with family members

People involved in your child's care might include your:

• doctor
• psychiatrist or a psychologist
• mental health nurse
• counsellor

Self-care at home

Lifestyle measures can help with your child's anxiety, such as:

• regular physical activity
• play
• healthy eating
• spending time with friends and family
• getting enough sleep

Medicines

Rarely, medicines may be recommended to help treat anxiety in children. You can speak to your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How can I support my child with anxiety?

If you think your child has anxiety, you can support them by:

• acknowledging their fears — don't dismiss or ignore them
• gently encouraging your child to do things they're anxious about, taking it slowly and praising their effort
• waiting until your child gets anxious before you step in to help
• avoiding labelling your child as 'shy' or 'anxious'

You may also want to talk to your child's teacher and school counsellor for further support at school.

You can learn more about helping younger children to manage new situations.

What are the complications of anxiety?

If left untreated, an anxiety disorder can stop your child from having experiences that are important for their development. Their avoidance of things and increasing distress can be debilitating.

Untreated anxiety disorders can increase the chance of your child developing other anxiety and mental health problems. These might include depression and suicidal thoughts.

If you, or someone you know, is in immediate danger of hurting themselves or others, call triple zero (000).

Can anxiety in children be prevented?

Anxiety is a normal experience. But it's a good idea to keep an eye on any anxiety symptoms.

If you notice anxiety interfering with your child's life, seeking help can help prevent development of an anxiety disorder. Seeing your doctor is a good place to start.

Resources and support

Helping your child overcome anxiety is easier if you seek help.

headspace provides mental health services for those aged 12 to 25 years.

The Brave Program is an interactive, online program for preventing and treating anxiety in children.

This Way Up has digital mental health treatments and online programs.

Kids Helpline has information for children and parents on anxiety. You can call for support anytime, for any reason on 1800 55 1800. There is also a web chat service available 24 hours a day.

For advice and to get connected to local mental health services, call Medicare Mental Health on 1800 595 212. Check the operating times.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.