Understanding Anxiety in Kids: What Every Parent Should Know

Anxiety is a normal part of childhood, we need anxiety. It's not inherently bad,

but how do you know when your child’s worries are more than just a phase? Many children experience anxiety at different points in their lives—starting school, making friends, or trying something new can all bring up feelings of unease. However, for some kids, anxiety can become overwhelming and start to interfere with daily life.

Understanding what anxiety looks like, what causes it, and how to support your child can make a real difference.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a natural response to stress or uncertainty. It’s that feeling of worry or fear about something that might happen in the future.

For children, anxiety might be triggered by:

• Starting a new school
• Meeting new people
• Taking a test
• Sleeping alone

Some levels of anxiety is completely normal, but when it becomes intense, persistent, or stops them from enjoying everyday activities, it may be time to take a closer look.

Signs of Anxiety in Kids

Anxiety doesn’t always look the way we expect. It’s not just about feeling nervous—kids often express anxiety in different ways. Some may verbalise their worries, while others might withdraw or act out.

Common signs of anxiety in children include:

• Excessive worry about things that may or may not happen
• Avoiding certain situations or activities
• Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
• Physical symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, or muscle tension
• Irritability or restlessness
• Trouble concentrating or going blank under pressure
• Panic attacks or sudden feelings of intense fear
• Clinging to parents or needing constant reassurance

Some kids may not say, "I'm feeling anxious"—instead, they might say, "I feel sick" or complain of a tummy ache. Others might become unusually quiet, withdrawn, or even overly well-behaved to avoid triggering their worries.

What Causes Anxiety in Kids?

There isn’t one single cause of anxiety in children. Instead, it’s often a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics – Anxiety can run in families.
• Brain chemistry – Imbalances in neurotransmitters may play a role.
• Life experiences – Stressful events like moving house, divorce, or the loss of a loved one can contribute.
• Personality and temperament – Some children are naturally more anxious than others.
• Environmental influences – School pressures, social expectations, and even media exposure can increase anxiety.

How Can You Support an Anxious Child?

If your child is struggling with anxiety, there are ways you can help:

1. Validate Their Feelings

Let them know it’s okay to feel anxious and that their emotions are valid. ?? “I can see that you’re feeling worried. That makes sense, and I’m here to help.”

2. Encourage Open Conversations

Create a safe space for them to talk about their worries without judgment. Try asking:

• What’s on your mind?
• What’s the worst thing that could happen?
• How can we work through this together?

3. Teach Coping Strategies

Help them develop tools to manage their anxiety, such as:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Visualising a safe place
• Journaling or drawing their feelings
• Grounding techniques (e.g. naming five things they can see, hear, and feel)

4. Provide Reassurance—But Don’t Avoid Anxiety Triggers

It’s natural to want to protect your child from distressing situations, but avoiding anxiety-provoking situations can reinforce fear. Instead, help them take small, manageable steps to build confidence. ?? “I know this feels scary, but I believe you can handle it.”

5. Seek Professional Support When Needed

If anxiety is stopping your child from engaging in daily life—such as attending school, socialising, or sleeping well, it might be time to reach out for professional help.

When to Seek Professional Help

Some level of anxiety is normal, but professional support may be needed if:

• Anxiety is frequent and persistent
• It prevents them from going to school or socialising
• They avoid things they used to enjoy
• They experience panic attacks or intense distress
• Their anxiety seems excessive for their age

Therapies That Can Help

Several evidence-based therapies support children with anxiety, including:

• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) – Helps kids understand the connection between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours.
• Play Therapy – Uses drawing, storytelling, and play to help children express emotions.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – Encourages mindfulness and acceptance of emotions rather than avoiding them.
• Family Therapy – Helps improve family communication and support structures.

If you’re unsure where to start, speaking with your child’s GP or school counsellor can help guide the next steps.

Anxiety in children is common, and with the right support, they can learn to manage it and thrive.

By validating their feelings, teaching coping skills, and knowing when to seek professional help, you can empower your child to feel more confident in handling their worries.