All children experience episodes of anxiety.  It is expected and normal during certain developmental stages and experiences. Children in infancy and toddler stages can have some degree of anxiety when leaving their parents and younger children can have short term irrational fears of the dark, animals, weather, strangers, etc.  If anxieties are intense, long lasting or begin to interfere with daily functioning then it would be prudent to seek evaluation with a mental health or medical professional. 

Types:

Separation Anxiety

•             constant thoughts and fears about safety or self and parents

•             refusing to go to school

•             frequent stomach or headaches or other physical symptoms

•             extreme worries about sleeping or being away from home

•             overly clingy

•             panic or tantrums at times of separation from parents

•             trouble sleeping or nightmares

Phobia

•             irrational fears of specific things 

•             dogs or other animals

•             insects

•             needles

•             heights

Generalized

•             many worries about things before they happen

•             constant worries or concern about school performance, friends, sports

•             repetitive thoughts or actions (obsessions)

•             fears of embarrassment or making mistakes

•             low self esteem 

*info adapted from American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

When symptoms become patterns that last longer than a few weeks and/or interfere with a child’s sense of well-being, daily functioning at home, in school, with friends and family, it is always a good idea to seek out professional evaluation, information, and support for both the child and parents.  CWCA has staff that specialize in working with children using a variety of treatment techniques to address anxiety. For more information or to schedule an appointment please call 715-424-6960