New Jersey
Childhood Anxiety Therapy
Childhood anxiety is a mental health condition characterized by excessive worry, fear, or nervousness in children. While it is normal for children to experience occasional fears, such as being afraid of the dark or meeting new people, anxiety disorders go beyond typical childhood worries. These fears become persistent and interfere with daily life, affecting school performance, relationships, and overall well-being.
Anxiety in children can manifest in many ways, from separation anxiety when leaving a parent to social anxiety in group settings or generalized anxiety about everyday situations. While every child may worry from time to time, an anxiety disorder can cause distress that is out of proportion to the situation and may require intervention.
How Common Is
Childhood Anxiety
Childhood anxiety is more common than many people realize. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 9.4% of children aged 3–17 (about 5.8 million children in the U.S.) have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Research also shows that childhood anxiety is often underdiagnosed or misinterpreted as shyness, defiance, or attention issues, which means the actual numbers may be even higher. Early intervention is key to managing symptoms and preventing long-term mental health challenges.
The Onset Of
Childhood Anxiety
Anxiety can emerge at any stage of childhood, but symptoms typically appear between ages 3 and 6, when children begin to recognize dangers in their environment. More complex anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety, tend to develop between ages 7 and 12. Adolescence can further exacerbate anxiety symptoms, particularly as academic pressures, social dynamics, and self-identity concerns increase.
Certain risk factors can contribute to the early onset of childhood anxiety, including:
- Genetics: Children with a family history of anxiety disorders are more likely to develop anxiety themselves.
- Parenting Style: Overprotective or highly critical parenting can increase anxiety levels.
- Trauma or Stressful Events: Moving, divorce, bullying, or the loss of a loved one can trigger anxiety.
- Neurological and Environmental Factors: A child’s brain chemistry and exposure to stressful environments play a significant role.
Signs & Symptoms of
Childhood Anxiety
Recognizing anxiety in children can be challenging, as symptoms may present differently depending on the child’s age and personality. If any of these symptoms persist for more than six months and interfere with daily life, it may indicate an anxiety disorder requiring professional help. Some common signs include:
Emotional Symptoms
- Excessive worry or fear about future events
- Intense distress in social situations
- Frequent crying or emotional outbursts
- Clinginess or fear of being alone
- Irritability or mood swings
Physical Symptoms
- Stomachaches, nausea, or headaches
- Increased heart rate or dizziness
- Fatigue or difficulty sleeping
- Muscle tension or restlessness
- Shortness of breath
Behavioral Symptoms
- Avoidance of social situations or school
- Repetitive behaviors or perfectionism
- Refusal to participate in activities they once enjoyed
- Difficulty concentrating or sitting still
- Seeking constant reassurance
The Long-Term Effects Of
Childhood Anxiety
Childhood anxiety can have significant long-term effects if left untreated. It can impact a child’s ability to develop social skills, perform well in school, and maintain emotional well-being. Children with untreated anxiety are also at higher risk for developing depression, substance abuse problems, and other mental health conditions in adulthood.
Anxiety can manifest physically as well, leading to symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, and sleep disturbances. The emotional and physical toll of chronic anxiety can lead to avoidance behaviors, such as refusing to go to school, isolating from peers, or avoiding activities they once enjoyed.
Types of Therapy for
Childhood Anxiety
Through our integrative assessment at intake, which includes gathering information regarding your child’s daily activities, diet, sleep habits, and emotional assessment, we can get an accurate take on possible interventions and therapies.
Utilizing a combination of play, cognitive-behavioral therapy, increased awareness of brain and body connection and mindfulness strategies, your child will learn how their brain and body are connected, how this impacts their emotional awareness, and learn effective strategies on handling this.
Therapies used for Childhood Anxiety may include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is one of the most effective treatments for childhood anxiety. It helps children recognize anxious thoughts and replace them with more rational, positive thinking patterns. CBT also teaches coping strategies, such as breathing exercises and problem-solving skills.
Exposure Therapy
Exposure therapy gradually exposes children to their fears in a controlled and safe manner, helping them develop confidence and reduce avoidance behaviors over time.
Play Therapy
For younger children, play therapy allows them to express their fears and emotions through play rather than direct conversation. This type of therapy can be beneficial for children who struggle to articulate their worries.
Family Therapy
Family therapy helps parents and caregivers understand how to support their child’s anxiety management. It can also address parenting styles that may contribute to a child’s anxious tendencies. We use behavior systems and parent coaching to help with generalization of skills during the parent feedback component of sessions. Your therapist will help guide you on tools and strategies that can assist your child, as well as collaborate with any school or outside provider at your request.
frequently asked questions about
Childhood Anxiety
What Triggers Anxiety in a Child?
Common anxiety triggers in children include major life changes (such as moving or parental divorce), academic stress, bullying, separation from parents, traumatic experiences, and social pressures. Additionally, children with anxious parents may be more likely to develop anxiety themselves.
How Can I Help My Anxious Child?
Parents can support their child by:
- Encouraging open communication about their fears
- Teaching relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or mindfulness
- Gradually exposing them to anxiety-provoking situations
- Modeling calm and positive behavior
- Seeking professional help if anxiety becomes overwhelming
Will Childhood Anxiety Go Away on Its Own?
Mild anxiety may improve as a child develops coping skills, but persistent or severe anxiety often requires intervention. Without treatment, childhood anxiety can persist into adulthood and lead to additional mental health challenges.
Start Your Child Therapy Journey
Behaved Brain Wellness Center is currently accepting new in-person and virtual clients. If you’d like to call to schedule a session at either our Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ or Midland Park, NJ location, click here!
