|  | Family Health | Childrens Health

Signs & Symptoms of Anxiety in Children

Anxiety disorders are widespread among children, "occurring in about 13 of every 100 children and adolescents ages 9 to 17," reports the National Mental Health Information Center. Net Wellness notes that early detection and treatment of anxiety in children "can prevent future difficulties such as loss of friendships, failure to reach social and academic potential, and feelings of low self-esteem," as well as "clinical depression or the formation of more severe anxiety disorders." It is important for parents and caregivers to know the signs of anxiety so that the problem can be diagnosed and treated promptly.

  1. Worry

    • Worry is a common symptom of anxiety in children. Although it's normal for every child to be anxious at times, whether facing a test at school, preparing for an important soccer game or dance recital, or packing for a trip to a new place, children with anxiety fret over thoughts, situations and possibilities that would otherwise not merit such a level of concern. A child with anxiety may worry excessively over her academic performance when she is already at the top of her class.

    Physical Symptoms

    • Children with anxiety may experience physical symptoms of illness, such as stomach pain, muscle discomfort or other physical signs of distress.

    Fear of Separation

    • Although it's normal for young children to be frightened at the prospect of being separated from parents, caregivers or familiar places, an older child who is still exhibiting excessively clingy tendencies may be experiencing a symptom of anxiety. This problem may keep a child from sleeping at night, or it may even cause an irrational fear of losing a loved one to illness or death.

    Phobia

    • Children suffering from anxiety may also suffer from a phobia, such as an extreme fear of thunderstorms, enclosed spaces, heights or even social situations. A child with a phobia will go to great lengths to avoid that situation or object.

    Panic Attacks

    • One of the most extreme and concerning symptoms of anxiety in children is a panic attack. A panic attack can be brought on by worry, an encounter with a phobia, or nothing in particular. It can cause both a physical and mental response. Physical symptoms include a racing heartbeat, trembling, nausea and perspiration; a psychological reaction can include a paralyzing and irrational fear of death.

Childrens Health - Related Articles