Anxiety
Understanding Anxiety in Children and Teens
It is normal for children and adolescents to feel worried or nervous at times. Anxiety can even be helpful—it can motivate students to prepare for a test, try their best, or stay safe in unfamiliar situations.
However, when worries become overwhelming, happen frequently, or interfere with daily life, your child may be experiencing anxiety that needs additional support.
What Does Anxiety Look Like?
Anxiety does not always look the same in every child. Some common signs include:
Emotional signs:
- Excessive worry or fear
- Irritability or mood changes
- Difficulty concentrating
Physical signs:
- Headaches or stomachaches
- Fatigue or trouble sleeping
- Rapid heartbeat or shortness of breath
Behavioral signs:
- Avoiding school or social situations
- Seeking constant reassurance
- Difficulty completing assignments
What Causes Anxiety?
Anxiety can develop for many reasons, including:
- Academic pressure or testing
- Social challenges or peer relationships
- Big life changes (moving, family changes, loss)
- Personality traits (some children are naturally more sensitive)
Often, there is not just one single cause.
How Can Parents Help?
There are many ways you can support your child:
- Listen and validate feelings
Let your child know their feelings are real and important. - Encourage, don’t avoid
Gently support your child in facing fears rather than avoiding them. - Maintain routines
Consistent sleep, meals, and schedules help children feel secure. - Teach coping skills
Deep breathing, taking breaks, and positive self-talk can help manage anxiety. - Model calm behavior
Children often learn how to respond to stress by watching adults.
When Should I Seek Additional Help?
You may want to reach out for support if your child’s anxiety:
- Interferes with school attendance or performance
- Impacts friendships or family life
- Causes frequent physical complaints
- Does not improve over time
School counselors are here to help and can work with you to determine next steps.
We’re Here to Support You
If you have concerns about your child, please don’t hesitate to contact your school counselor. Early support can make a big difference in helping students feel confident, capable, and successful.