What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety in Children?

Children and teens are likely to experience anxiousness, fear, or worry at one time or another, especially in new situations. These feelings are normal but can become a problem when they are intense or persistent and interfere with home life, school, and other areas. The experienced and caring providers at West Park Pediatrics in Manalapan, Ocean, & Lakewood, NJ, treat anxiety in kids of all ages and can develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to the needs of your child.

What Causes Anxiety in Kids?

Anxiety can be described as an overwhelming feeling of intense or persistent fear, worry, or unease. Some kids experience generalized anxiety, while others might only experience it in specific situations, such as social encounters. There are many reasons why a child or teen develops anxiety, such as:

• Experiencing a traumatic event
• Major life changes, such as moving
• Bullying or other peer-related problems
• Loss of a family member
• Brain chemistry
• Heredity

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety?

Kids can exhibit signs of anxiety in different ways and symptoms can vary greatly from one child to the next. Some signs and symptoms of anxiety in kids include:

• Fear or worry
• Restlessness
• Trouble sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Avoiding certain situations
• Physical symptoms (e.g., tummy aches or headaches)
• Muscle tension
• Easily fatigued
• Irritability

In addition to the above symptoms, some children with anxiety also have a tendency to act out or become nervous or upset easily. Some behaviors associated with anxiety include blaming others, throwing frequent temper tantrums, refusing to follow rules or authority, being easily angered, and being prone to outbursts.

What Treatments Are There for Anxiety in Children?

Anxiety in kids can be treated through a variety of methods. Additionally, the right treatment approach often differs from one child to the next. The skilled providers at our pediatric offices in Manalapan, Ocean, & Lakewood, NJ, treat anxiety by developing customized treatment plans for each child based on various factors, such as symptoms and the cause of anxiety. Treatment could include medication, as well as lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and getting enough sleep. Some kids might also benefit from counseling or therapy.

If your child or teen exhibits signs of anxiety, help is available. Schedule an appointment with one of our caring pediatric providers to learn more about treating anxiety by calling West Park Pediatrics in Manalapan, Ocean, & Lakewood, NJ, at (732) 531-0010 for Ocean Township, (732) 577-0088 for Manalapan Township, or (732) 370-8500 for Lakewood.