If you are noticing an increase in fear, stress and anxiety in children, you may be wondering if it is an anxiety disorder. Being able to identify the signs and symptoms is a critical first step in helping your child with anxiety.
What are the symptoms of anxiety in children?
- excessive fear and anxiety often associated with family, school, friends or activities
- worrying about things before they happen
- low self-esteem and self-esteem
- physical symptoms such as abdominal pain, headache, muscle aches or tension
- fatigue and anxiety
- irritability
- changes in appetite
- lack of concentration
- irritability and inability to relax
- sleep problems and nightmares
- fear of making mistakes
Other disorders:
- uncontrollable or excessive
worries about daily activities and routines - unrealistic worries that do not focus on a specific object or situation
- worries about the future
- constant need for security
- unusual anxiety about meeting family, school expectations or friend
How to help the child
One way to help a child reduce anxiety is to teach them ways to cope. These include:
- yoga
- identify a soothing place that is safe and gives them space to breathe
- learn deep breathing exercises
- provide materials for art projects such as drawing, painting and creativity
- help identify and address negative thoughts
- leave write in the diary
- go out for physical activity
