Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Children

So, what does anxiety look like in children? Anxiety presents itself in many different ways in children, ways that are not always easy to pick up on. These symptoms include:

Agitation
Restlessness
Inattention, poor focus
Somatic symptoms like headaches or stomachaches
Avoidance
Tantrums
Crying
Refusing to go to school
Meltdowns before school about clothing, hair, shoes, socks
Meltdowns after school about homework
Difficulties with transitions within school, and between school and an activity/sport
Difficulty settling down for bed
Having high expectations for school work, homework and sports performance

Essentially, anxiety in children tends to manifest as negative behaviors that you may have glimpsed briefly in the past, but that are becoming consistent and intense. Over time, these behaviors can become frustrating to parents who feel unable to handle these newly arising attitudes, and don't know how to deal with children that are not responding to punishment, yelling, or to any other methods that were once effective. ( https://www.anxiety.org/causes-and-symptoms-of-anxiety-in-children)

What to do if you think your child is experiencing anxiety. First, know you are not alone. It’s not uncommon for children to experience worry, fear and anxiety. Second, give them words to explain how they are feeling. Third, seek help in an experienced child therapist. You and your child may only need a few session to provide proper tools to help your family navigate this symptom. Intersted in child therapy at True Life Counseling? Email truelifetlc@gmail.com to schedule a free consult.