How Anxiety Is Different in Children: Signs to Watch For

Anxiety affects people of all ages, but the symptoms it presents vary between children and adults. This blog highlights the differences, so you can better recognize anxiety in your child.

About one in 12 children and one in four teens has an anxiety disorder. Although symptoms vary, being able to identify the signs of anxiety can help you know when to act to support your child’s mental health.

At Sunny Hill Pediatrics in Frisco, Texas, Dr. Jung and our caring team have years of experience diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders. Read on to learn common signs to note.

What is an anxiety disorder?

An anxiety disorder is a mental health condition that causes feelings of intense worry and/or fear. Everyone experiences anxiety occasionally, but if your child regularly feels nervous, restless, or tense, it may indicate a more serious issue. Without treatment, anxiety can affect your child’s quality of life and performance at school.

4 signs of anxiety in children

Since anxiety presents differently in children than in adults, identifying the subtle signs is crucial. Here are some common symptoms:

1. A focus on specific fears

Young children are often afraid of the dark or monsters hiding under the bed, whereas adolescents may fear certain social situations, like being the last one picked to play dodgeball. Though all children experience strong emotions, if their fear is persistent, intense, or interferes with their daily activities, anxiety may be to blame.

2. Intense fear of separation

This sign of anxiety is most common in infants and toddlers between the ages of 18 months and three years. It’s characterized by an intense, ongoing fear of being separated from you (the parent) or other members of your family.

Children are often clingy, but if your little one cries or becomes frantic every time you drop them off at daycare or with a babysitter, it could be the result of anxiety.

3. Avoiding play

Children are playful by nature. They enjoy acting out stories with their toys, running around with friends, and exploring the playground. However, if your child avoids these activities, it may be a sign of anxiety.

Kids who are anxious often avoid activities that make them feel nervous or overwhelmed. So, they may cling to you or sit on the sidelines when given the opportunity to interact with other children.

4. Noticeable physical symptoms

Even though anxiety is a mental health condition, it often triggers physical symptoms. For example, your child might complain of frequent stomachaches, headaches, or nausea. These symptoms can also affect appetite and the ability to fall and stay asleep.

Of course, all children experience aches and pains, but if you notice these symptoms occurring at specific times—like right before it’s time to leave for school—scheduling an anxiety and depression screening can provide peace of mind.

We can help you determine if your child or teen has anxiety!

If you’ve noticed your child or teenager displaying any of the symptoms above, contact Sunny Hill Pediatrics today.

After a physical exam and psychiatric testing, we can determine if your child has an anxiety disorder. A combination of healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medication can help ease their anxiety and ensure your child thrives. Call our Frisco, Texas office, or book an appointment online.