Anxiety is a mental health condition where individuals experience excessive worry, fear, or unease. Anxiety disorders are one of the most common forms of mental illness in the United States, and anxiety issues affect children as well. It’s important to understand how these disorders manifest so that parents can properly identify an anxiety disorder in their children and get them the help they need.
What Causes Anxiety in Children?
Many things cause anxiety in children, and some of the more common causes include:
- Genetics: If parents or close family members have anxiety disorders, the child’s chances of developing an anxiety disorder are higher.
- Trauma: Children who have experienced traumatic events like abuse, neglect, or natural disasters can develop anxiety disorders.
- Brain chemistry: Some children have an imbalance of neurotransmitters, which can lead to anxiety.
- Medical conditions: Medical conditions like thyroid problems, heart arrhythmias, and diabetes can contribute to anxiety in children.
- Medications: Medications like steroids and stimulants can increase anxiety levels.
Symptoms of Anxiety in Children
Anxiety in children can present itself in different ways. Some common symptoms include:
- Excessive worry or stress about things (friends, school, family, etc.)
- Avoidance of activities/situations that may cause anxiety
- Restlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep problems
- Physical symptoms (racing heart, trembling, sweating, feeling nauseous, etc.)
If you’re concerned that your child has begun showing signs of anxiety, look for these symptoms. One or two of them alone is not enough to worry about, but if a child is experiencing multiple symptoms often, then it’s time to seek medical advice.
How Does Anxiety Affect Children?
Anxiety is an emotion that everyone is capable of experiencing. For children, anxiety can be especially tough to deal with. Not only are they experiencing new situations, but they also have to cope with the stress of school, friendships, and family life. All of this can lead to some big worries.
Anxiety manifests differently within children. Some kids may become withdrawn and start avoiding activities they once enjoyed. Others may become overly clingy and need constant reassurance from those around them. There is even the potential for children to develop aggression and act out disruptively.
Anxiety can harm a child’s mental and emotional well-being, affecting their self-esteem and confidence. This can have long-term effects on their lives and the relationships they develop.
Managing Anxiety in Children
Knowing your child is anxious can be distressing, but there are many things you can do to help your child manage their anxiety like pairing them with a smart companion, and allowing them to express their feelings and fears.
Snorble is a buddy for your child to take to bed, as they focus on sleep. They can aid your child’s bedtime routine, making it fun and exciting for them. Moreover, your child can interact and share stories with Snorble and play educational games during the day. Having Snorble can help ease sleep time anxiety in children while setting them up with healthy habits they can carry with them into adulthood.
Another way to help your child manage their anxiety is by providing your child with opportunities to express their feelings and worries, which can be done through talking, writing, or drawing.
It is also crucial to help your child develop coping skills. This may involve teaching them relaxation techniques, problem-solving skills, or how to manage their thoughts and emotions.
Conclusion
Anxiety in children is a serious issue that should be addressed by parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals. With the right support, children can overcome their anxiety and lead happy, healthy lives.
