Kids today face numerous anxiety-inducing challenges, from scary world events to the pressures of social media. No wonder mental health professionals are seeing an increase in anxiety among young patients.
Plus, as we approach the return to school, anxiety in kids can increase. For some kids, the back-to-school season is a time of excitement and joy. For others, it can cause worry and stress.
“Two children can experience the same event and have vastly different reactions,” says Jordan Braciszewski, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist at Henry Ford Health, in a blog on their website. “Why a particular child will develop anxiety is dependent upon a variety of biological, psychological and environmental factors. Some children are just more prone to anxiety than others.”
Anxiety, like all emotions, exists on a spectrum. “A certain amount of anxiety is actually healthy,” says Dr. Braciszewski. “But when it stops a child from socializing, doing well in school, or enjoying activities, it’s time to seek help.”
Here are seven things kids might say to you when they are feeling anxious, along with Dr. Braciszewki’s suggestions on what to do.
1. “I don’t want to go to school!”
What to do: Understand the root cause. Is your child anxious about a test or a social situation?
Action step: Talk to your child about their specific worries and help them find coping strategies. Offer reassurance and encourage open communication with teachers.
Tip: Establish a consistent morning routine to provide a sense of stability and predictability.
2. “My tummy hurts.“
What to do: Acknowledge your child’s feelings and offer comfort. Consider if anxiety could be the cause.
Action step: Keep a diary of when these complaints occur to identify patterns and triggers. Teach relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
Tip: Encourage physical activity to help reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.
3. “I can’t sleep.”
What to do: Discuss their day and identify any stressors that may be affecting their sleep.
Action step: Create a calming bedtime routine, including activities like reading or listening to soft music. Limit screen time before bed.
Tip: Ensure their sleep environment is comfortable and free of distractions.
4. “I don’t feel like eating.”
What to do: Keep mealtimes regular and stress-free. Monitor for patterns and potential triggers.
Action step: Encourage healthy eating habits and involve your child in meal planning and preparation. Avoid forcing them to eat.
Tip: Offer a variety of nutritious snacks and meals to maintain energy levels and overall health.
5. “I feel worried.”
What to do: Engage in mindfulness activities to help them focus on the present.
Action step: Practice mindfulness with your child using fun activities like mindful chocolate eating. Have them eat a piece of candy and describe the sensations they experience.
Tip: Introduce yoga or deep breathing exercises as part of their daily routine.
6. “I’m scared.”
What to do: Create a sensory box with comforting items for each of the five senses. This helps keep your child rooted in the moment.
Action step: Let your child choose items like mints, a photo of caregivers, a stuffed animal, lotion and their favorite song. Use the box when they feel anxious.
Tip: Keep the sensory box easily accessible for quick relief.
7. “I had a bad day.”
What to do: Listen without judgment and encourage them to share their feelings.
Action step: Ask open-ended questions about their day and validate their emotions. Offer support and guidance.
Tip: Establish a daily check-in routine where you discuss the highs and lows of your child’s day.
When to seek professional help
“If your child’s anxiety is persistent or worsening, it’s time to see a professional,” says Dr. Braciszewski. “They may only need a few sessions to learn coping skills. It’s important to remember that mental health is as crucial as physical health. Younger generations are more open about their mental health, which is a positive shift.”
To find out more and to find a doctor at Henry Ford, visit, henryford.com. Metro Parent has more resources and tips for keeping kids healthy when you click here.
