What Are the Signs of Anxiety in Children: What’s Normal and When To Seek Help
When adults struggle with anxiety or any other strong emotion they are more likely to tell someone or to seek help on their own. Children and even teenagers are not usually as in touch with what they are experiencing to verbalize it or even know how to express it, much less seek help. Instead, it's important to take notice of their behavior and look for sudden changes. Some of these signs and symptoms will be touched on below but you can learn much more by reaching out to your local Holly Springs, NC, pediatrician Dr. Maria Castro and Dr. Yenny Cruz of StarLight Pediatrics.
Signs and Symptoms
Children often become irritable and may throw temper tantrums, depending on age, if they are having trouble expressing themselves, they may have trouble being in a relaxed state.
Or they may show more obvious signs of fear, such as being anxious about going to school, being overly worried and anticipating things, or it could be the opposite and appear often fatigued and without energy.
It's also important to look for potential triggers of anxiety and depression, such as a recent loss in the family, a change in their environment, or a personal traumatic experience.
Symptoms can also manifest physically, like headaches, stomachaches, and other similar signs.
Anxiety Treatment in Holly Springs, NC
Some of the above-mentioned signs can be typical of children, but depending on how sudden the change is, how often they act out, or how severely, then it may be time to seek help. Your child's pediatrician can be your best resource, they treat young patients on a regular basis so they can help you determine if there is a reason for concern, and if there is, they are able to put you in contact with specialists who can better help your child. Specialists such as therapists, psychiatrists, and psychologists who can teach your child strategies to better cope and improve their quality of life.
If you suspect your child is struggling with anxiety you can schedule a consultation with Dr. Castro and Dr. Cruz of StarLight Pediatrics in Holly Springs, NC, by dialing (919) 762-5113.