As children get older, it is normal for them to worry every once in a while, especially as they start daycare or school or move to a new home. But there are times when this worry turns into anxiety and affects many aspects of their lives and their behavior daily. Because of this, it is vital for you as a parent to understand the signs and causes of anxiety in children and the best ways to help your child who is struggling.
Signs of Anxiety in Your Child
Suppose you suspect that your child has anxiety. In that case, there are several signs you should look for that will help you determine the possibility of them having an anxiety disorder which could potentially lead to physical symptoms such as subluxation, or spinal misalignment, if not caught early.
Specific anxiety symptoms in your child could include them finding it difficult to concentrate or seeming to be in a constant state of worry. You may also find their sleep schedule has changed, and they wake up often complaining of bad dreams.
Their emotional responses will also be more volatile, with them getting easily aggravated and not being in control of these outbursts, which is a clear sign of something else. Your child will also become more attached to you and complain of stomach aches constantly.
If any of these symptoms appear in your child, then it is time to consider that they could struggle with anxiety.
Causes of Anxiety in Children
There are various reasons a child may have anxiety, and sometimes it is simply that they were born without the ability to cope with stress as well as others. However, they can also pick up on anxious behavior around other worried people.
Other than that, there are a number of events that could be the underlying cause for their anxiety, such as if they constantly are moving homes or schools or there is a lot of fighting at home. A friend or relative’s death could cause it, and a severe illness befalling them or someone they love. Abuse, neglect, or bullying are also significant factors that could be the cause.
It is also important to note that children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or autistic spectrum disorders will likely have anxiety.
Ways to Help an Anxious Child
If your child is having anxiety issues, there are many things you can do as a parent to help them. The most vital thing is to talk with your child about their anxiety and do proper research to understand better what your child is going through.
With your support and reassurance, there is a chance that their anxiety will go away after a certain amount of time, but that does not mean you should not also seek out professional help. Pursuing professional aid will be especially important if your child’s anxiety worsens and it is beginning to affect their school, family, and social life.
Treatments for Anxiety in Children
For childhood anxiety, there are a variety of treatments offered for them. The first is seeking counseling for them. The best way for your child to understand their feelings is by talking it out with a therapist and receiving cognitive behavioral therapy. It is an opportunity for them to be open about everything, and sometimes it is easier for them to open up to someone who is not their parent.
You may need to seek medication for your child when their anxiety seems extreme. Several drugs are offered, usually only provided if the child has not shown improvement in talking therapies and has a severe anxiety disorder. Usually, these prescriptions are only prescribed by doctors specializing in children’s and younger people’s mental health.
Watching your child struggle with anxiety is not an easy thing to witness. However, every parent wants what is best for their child, and understanding the signs, causes, and treatments for childhood anxiety is the best way to support your child.
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