What Is Childhood Anxiety?

It’s normal for children to feel anxious from time to time, but some factors can increase the likelihood of a child experiencing persistent anxiety. These include:

• Genetics: A family history of anxiety can make children more prone to anxious thoughts and behaviours.
• Personality or temperament: Some children are naturally more cautious or sensitive.
• Environment and stressors: Life events, school pressures, or family stress can contribute to anxiety.

Children’s worries often focus on being sick or hurt, separation from caregivers, or fears of the dark or imaginary creatures. As they grow older, their anxieties may shift to friendships, school performance, social situations, and future responsibilities.

Unlike adults, children may struggle to articulate how they feel. Younger children might say they are “scared” or “worried,” while teenagers may describe feeling “stressed” or “freaked out.” In many cases, their behaviours and emotional expressions serve as important clues to how anxious they are feeling.

Symptoms of Childhood Anxiety

When a child feels anxious, their “fight or flight” response is triggered. This automatic reaction releases stress hormones, preparing the body to respond to perceived threats. These physical changes often create a variety of symptoms, including:

• Frequent complaints of illness (headaches, stomach aches, general pains)
• Increased heart rate or rapid breathing
• Fear of being separated from caregivers
• Shyness or withdrawal in social situations
• Seeking reassurance or showing perfectionist tendencies
• School refusal or difficulty attending class
• Trouble concentrating or paying attention
• Sweating, blushing, or restlessness
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep

Five Ways Parents and Caregivers Can Help

1. Acknowledge and name the anxiety
   Help your child recognise their feelings and understand that what they are experiencing is anxiety or worry.
2. Start with calming strategies
   Encourage slow, deep breathing or other relaxation techniques before helping your child problem-solve the situation that is causing worry.
3. Encourage gradual exposure
   Gently support your child in facing their fears. Avoiding the anxiety-inducing situation or doing it for them can actually increase anxiety over time.
4. Praise brave behaviours
   Celebrate your child’s small successes when they cope with anxiety, reinforcing confidence and resilience.
5. Seek professional help if needed
   If anxiety is severe, persistent, or prevents your child from participating in school, friendships, or family life, consider consulting a psychologist. Early support can help children learn effective coping strategies and reduce long-term impacts.

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult your doctor or registered health professional for diagnosis and treatment.

About the Author:
This blog was written by Melissa Reardon, Clinical Psychologist at CBT Professionals on the Gold Coast. CBT Professionals have offices in Coomera and Nerang, offering services to adults, children, and couples. For appointments, please call (07) 5668 3490.