All children and young people get anxious at times, this is a normal part of their development as they grow up, and develop their ‘survival skills’ so they can face challenges in the wider world. In addition, we all have different levels of stress we can cope with – some young people are just naturally more anxious than others, and are quicker to get stressed or worried.

But if you think your child’s anxiety is getting in the way of their day to day life, slowing down their development, or having a significant effect on their schooling or relationships, it is best to try and help them tackle it.

The causes of anxiety can be complicated and it might not be one thing alone that is causing it.

We all have different levels of stress we are comfortable with. Being anxious or a ‘worrier’ can run in families – many parents whose children are anxious also remember being anxious in their own childhoods, and are keen to support their children so they don’t suffer in the same way. Personality type and temperament can also be a factor – some children are simply born more anxious or ‘nervous’ than others. So you might notice some of the following behaviors in your own child at times or most of the time……

Feeling scared, panicky, embarrassed or ashamed a lot of the time.

Not having the confidence to try new things, face challenges or even carry on as normal Finding it hard to concentrate, or having problems with sleeping or eating.

Having angry outbursts where the person gets very angry very quickly and feels ‘out of control’.

Worries or negative thoughts going round and round the person’s head, or thinking that bad things are going to happen all the time.

If someone is very anxious they might feel they have to do or say certain things, or bad things will happen.

If you feel that any of the above is worrying you, your child or impacting on your family situation then contact me and let me help your child uncover the underlying cause of THEIR anxiety.