All children experience some stress and anxiety due to school or family tension. But if a child's anxiety is severe following a stressful situation, such as a death, separation or another stressful event, it can be very difficult for some kids to cope. Many children have normal fears, but if the child worries almost constantly, he may need help in order to deal with the symptoms of anxiety. Consult your child's doctor if you suspect that your child has an anxiety disorder or is dealing with acute stress.
Separation Anxiety
One of the most common manifestations of anxiety in children is separation anxiety. Between ages 8 and 12 months, children often experience a period of separation anxiety when their parents leave the house. If the separation anxiety does not fade by 24 months, your child may be experiencing unusual amounts of stress, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Phobias
Children may be afraid of the dark or monsters in the closet. Fear can cause rapid heartbeat, stomach distress, sweaty palms or trembling. Many of these fears disappear with time, however if they are extreme, interfere with daily functioning and persist over time, they may be phobias. Phobias will likely require treatment by a psychologist.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Children with generalized anxiety disorder worry excessively about the past, present and future. "They may be concerned about upcoming events, school, family health, their own health, competence in sports or academics and world events," according to the Child Anxiety website. Children with generalized anxiety disorder often feel restless or on edge, they may get fatigued often, have difficulty concentrating and suffer from sleep disturbances.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive compulsive disorder causes recurrent obsessions, or intrusive thoughts, and/or compulsions, or repetitive behaviors. These behaviors are time consuming and are often very distressful to the child. Common obsessions are related to counting, contamination and self doubt. Compulsions may involve hand washing, checking things such as locks or placing things in a certain order.
Panic Disorder
Children who experience panic attacks may suffer from panic disorder. Children with panic disorder may avoid going places and engaging in activities out of a fear that a panic attack might occur. A panic attack is an episode of intense fear and unease, comprised of both physical symptoms and extreme panic. During an attack, children may experience increased heart rate, sweating, difficulty breathing, hot flashes or dizziness.
