Anxiety in Children: Symptoms & Support in York, Manchester & online

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a feeling of unease, worry, or fear, and it can be experienced both physically and mentally.

A normal part of growing up is feeling worried sometimes and is something all children and young people will experience. This could be at points in their lives such as starting secondary school, sitting an exam, or experiencing change, but these nerves should soon pass as the situation unfolds.

Anxiety can become a problem for children and young people when it starts to impact their everyday lives. Severe worrying which continues for a long period of time can start to make them feel isolated, exhausted, or withdrawn, affecting their self-esteem and emotional wellbeing.

 

Symptoms of Anxiety

You may notice a change in your child, which can be displayed in a combination of physical or emotional differences.

 

Physical symptoms can include:

Panic attacks

Shallow breathing

Tense muscles

Heart palpitations

Dizziness

Feeling sick

Dry mouth

Overheating

Unable to sleep

Unable to concentrate

 

Emotional symptoms can include feeling:

Restless

Panicky

Full of dread

Overwhelmed

On edge

Agitated

Nervous

Frightened

 

How to deal with Anxiety

There are lots of things you can do to help your child if they are struggling with anxiety, so they can manage it and feel more in control. Sometimes these tips can help your child manage their anxiety, but sometimes further professional support is needed.

Every child is different, so it is important to try different techniques to discover what is best for them, which in time will help them feel more confident and able to cope when they feel anxiety symptoms coming on.

The most important thing is to talk to your child, make them feel reassured and that you understand what they feel.

Try relaxing activities such as mindfulness or yoga, make a worry box, go on a walk together and let them know you are there to support them. When you feel the moment is right, talk to your child about their anxiety and work together to recognise the signs that make them feel anxious.

 

When to get help with Anxiety

If your child’s anxiety does not ease through talking to them and exploring ways to help manage it together, then it may be time to seek professional help.

We understand seeking therapy can be daunting for both you and your child and that taking the first step can be hard. We have a team of professional and friendly child therapists who can work together with you and your child to design a bespoke and flexible treatment which works best for them. Our children’s therapy services are available for children and teenagers aged 5 to 17, at our clinics in York, Manchester and online.

Please get in touch using the form below to find out more about how we can help.