Anxiety can present in a variety of ways. There are symptoms that are pervasive and intense while there are some symptoms that are more subtle. If your child is experiencing intense fears and panic you would likely be concerned about anxiety, however, there are some more unique symptoms that may indicate anxiety in children. Even the most engaged individuals can miss these small anxiety signs. Knowledge is power and therapy can help to increase this knowledge base.

Recognizing the symptoms of anxiety in children can be critical. Children don’t tend to see the world the way adults do. Confronted with emotions they have difficulty comprehending or processing stimuli. This can result in confusion and fear. This can sometimes explain why children tend to fear things that others may find harmless. With lack of experience, knowledge and exposure can come intense fear.

Knowing the signs and symptoms of anxiety can be helpful not only for you but for your child as well.

What are More Common Symptoms or Indicators of Anxiety?

There are a number of different types of anxiety disorders, which include:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• Panic Disorder with and without Agoraphobia
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Separation Anxiety Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
• Social Anxiety Disorder

Hence, anxiety disorders “have hundreds, possibly thousands of symptoms,” which differ according to what type of anxiety disorder is being experienced. For example, GAD can trigger fear about almost anything, but a phobia tends to be more specific. Many children exhibit worry, however, when this fear or worry becomes intense, pervasive and/or impacts functioning it is likely more than your average passing concern.

Regardless of the long list of symptoms, experts agree on some common signs of anxiety in children. These responses are generally associated with the ‘fight or flight system’. When it is not functioning well, the body reacts by having little power over anxiety-related fears and behaviors. It is designed to prepare your body for some action during emergency situations. The common signs of anxiety are generally the ones associated with the activation of this response – rapid heartbeat, sweaty hands and feet, difficulty breathing, gastrointestinal distress etc.

The ‘Atypical’ Signs of Anxiety

There are five unusual signs of anxiety in children that are often missed, says Survival for All Age. These symptoms include physical symptoms, refusing to go to school, intense anger, avoidance of activities and rigid patterns of behavior. These signs are often missed as they can be misconstrued as being defiance or even quirky behavior. Children experience anxiety may also have strong reactions to noise, dirt and clothes as well experiencing sleeplessness, picky eating, excessive shyness, difficulty leaving parents, and repetitive behaviors.

Anxiety can manifest physically in both children and adults. According to the Calm Clinic, different parts of the body react to the ‘fight or flight’ system. In particular, the hormone that causes you to be alert and responsive to dangers can also cause your heart to beat fast and your muscles to perform more effectively. Most systems in the body are connected and impact each other.

Anxiety also has emotional symptoms that can be impacted by brain chemicals that regulate moods and feelings. Symptoms of anxiety can impact your child’s cognitive functioning. Worry can manifest in frightening thoughts, perseveration, difficulty focusing, racing thoughts, nightmares, disorientation, forgetfulness and detachment.

Behavioral and Illness Related Symptoms of Anxiety

Experiencing anxiety can result in certain behaviors in children. If your child is experiencing social phobia, they may have certain behaviors to avoid people and gatherings. Because of these behaviors, they may be viewed as naughty, misbehaved, mischievous, etc.

Anxiety can also cause insomnia, appetite changes resulting in weight gain or loss, low energy and a weakened immune system. Their fear can be so severe they avoid social events and won’t participate in school activities. Growing up, they can be more likely to develop low self-esteem, eating disorders and/or self-harm.

Anxiety can similarly mimic symptoms that are characteristics of certain medical conditions. For example: stomach upset, headache, irritability, muscle pain or lack of appetite.

Read the “Unreadable Signs” with Counseling

Anxiety is experienced by many children and there are many symptoms. It may not be realistic to learn all of them on your own. A counselor can help.

Symptoms of anxiety can be pervasive and debilitating. It can be difficult to watch your child experience this. Early intervention can be key when it comes to recovery. Carolina Counseling Services – Pinehurst, NC contracts with independent, licensed therapists that know how to treat children with anxiety. Don’t wait, call today to schedule your child’s first appointment.

Related Articles:

• Does your Child have Anxiety?
• Ending Anxiety Masquerading as Disruptive Behavior
• When a Child’s Clumsiness Warrants Special Attention
• Don’t Let Anxiety/Fear/Phobias/OCD Grow With Your Child
• Raising an Anxious Child: Finding the Help that Matters
• Understanding Teen Anxiety and Fear to Better Help them