Common Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Children
By : Katherine Pica LCSW
As parents, you’ve likely experienced the joy of having an infant who happily interacts with everyone. However, as your child grows, you may notice a shift in their behavior. This change is often attributed to separation anxiety, a normal developmental phase that most children experience. Separation anxiety typically manifests in two distinct forms: “stranger anxiety” and separation anxiety proper. Stranger anxiety usually emerges around 7 months, peaking at about 12 months. During this phase, your child may become distressed when interacting with unfamiliar people.
As your child develops, separation anxiety may intensify. You might observe your toddler becoming upset between 18 months and three years, even during brief separations. This could involve crying or clinging behaviors when you need to leave the room momentarily. These behaviors are a normal part of your child’s emotional development. They signify your child’s growing awareness of their surroundings and strong attachment to you as their primary caregiver.
Understanding Normal Anxiety vs. Separation Anxiety Disorder
It’s important to recognize that some anxiety in children is perfectly normal. Kids often seek reassurance that they’re safe as they explore their world. Crying or clinging are common ways for young children to express fear and seek comfort, especially since they’re still learning to protect themselves. Most children navigate through stages of separation anxiety without major issues. However, for some, these feelings can intensify into Separation Anxiety Disorder. This condition is characterized by excessive distress upon separation or anticipation of separation from caregivers.
Key indicators of Separation Anxiety Disorder may include:
Excessive crying or protesting when separated from caregivers
Difficulty sleeping alone
Persistent worries about harm befalling the child or caregiver
Unexplained physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches
Reluctance or refusal to attend school
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Children with GAD often experience excessive worry about various aspects of life. They may fret over grades, family issues, peer relationships, or sports performance. This persistent anxiety can interfere with daily activities and impact their overall well-being.
Panic Disorder
Panic disorder in children is characterized by sudden, unexpected anxiety attacks. These episodes can be frightening and may lead to ongoing concern about future attacks. Children might worry about losing control or “going crazy” during these intense moments of panic.
Separation Anxiety Disorder
While separation anxiety is normal in toddlers, it becomes a disorder when older children struggle to leave their parents or caregivers. They may take longer to calm down after separations than peers. This intense distress can disrupt daily routines and social interactions.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Also known as social phobia, this condition involves an intense fear of social and performance situations. Children may avoid interacting with others or participating in activities due to overwhelming anxiety about being judged or embarrassed.
Selective Mutism and Specific Phobias
Selective mutism is a complex anxiety disorder where children refuse to speak in certain situations despite being able to communicate with others. This can severely impact their social interactions and academic performance. Children with selective mutism may struggle with activities like being called on in class or initiating conversations with peers.
Specific phobias are intense, irrational fears of particular objects or situations. Common childhood phobias include fear of animals, storms, heights, or medical procedures. Unlike adults, children often don’t recognize their fears as irrational. When confronted with their phobias they may exhibit symptoms such as crying, tantrums, or physical complaints like headaches.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Children
OCD in children manifests as unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) coupled with repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate anxiety. These rituals can significantly disrupt daily life and normal functioning. We specialize in working with children we have been trained on different child based methods to treat OCD. We have helped so many kids with OCD overcome their struggles.
PTSD in Children
PTSD can develop in children after experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. Symptoms may include intense fear, emotional numbness, or irritability. Children with PTSD often experience flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety in situations reminiscent of the trauma.
If you notice significant changes in your child’s behavior, mood, sleep patterns, or appetite, it may be time to consult a mental health professional. We can provide valuable insights and tailored strategies to address your child’s specific anxiety concerns. Book a consultation with us to learn more.
OCD and Anxiety treatment for kids
At Resilience Counseling we specialize in the treatment of OCD and anxiety for kids. We've been trained to help. Treat your child with evidence based forms of therapy. We will meet with you and your child first to help. Do a thorough assessment to figure out what they are struggling with. After that, we will come up with an evidence space treatment plan to help your child. Then we will teach your child tools and skills to help them overcome whatever they are struggling with. We have helped so many kids overcome their struggles with OCD and anxiety. We can help you and your kids as well. Learn how to overcome their struggles. Please reach out to us to set up a free 15 minute consult call!
Author Bio: Katherine Pica OCD Child treatment- San Diego, CA
Katherine Pica - Owner and clinical director of Resilience Counseling. She supervises all the therapists at Resilience counseling. She has been practicing since 2007 for over 17 years! Trained in evidence based methods like ERP for OCD and EMDR for Trauma. Katherine and her team brings years of experience to you. San Diego, CA based for session in person and all over California for virtual therapy.
Child OCD therapy and other areas of treatment in the
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Disclaimer : The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional and or medical advice, diagnosis, and or treatment. It is important to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a mental health and/or medical condition. Never disregard any professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Resilience Counseling website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 or local emergency number immediately.
