What is problem anxiety?

It’s okay to feel nervous or scared sometimes. It’s not okay to feel that way all of the time. When you have problem anxiety, you don’t feel like yourself. Problem anxiety makes it very hard to enjoy life. Luckily, you can get help for problem anxiety. You don’t have to feel this way.

Do I have problem anxiety?

Anxiety feels different to everyone. Thinking about the same things over and over again, or feeling nervous and worried most of the time are signs of anxiety. Anxiety can make you think or act differently than you normally do. Here are some signs of problem anxiety:

Anxiety is common! In a regular-sized classroom, at least one kid will struggle with problem anxiety.

Having nightmares
Worrying that something bad will happen to your family
Being afraid to speak up or ask questions in school
Feeling afraid to make a mistake
Thinking or worrying about dying

Lots of kids have anxiety, so you are not alone. Talking about your feelings with a parent or other adult can help you feel better and learn how you can cope.

Separation anxiety

This is a type of anxiety that is pretty common in kids. It means that you are really uncomfortable or scared when you are away from your parents or other adults you’re close to. Separation anxiety can make kids terrified to go to summer camp or even a sleepover with friends. Click here for tips on coping with separation anxiety.

Why do I feel this way?

There are many different types of problem anxiety and many different reasons for experiencing it. Some kids suffer from anxiety after something upsetting happens to them. Other kids have anxiety when they’re around other kids, like at a birthday party or at camp. Some kids have anxiety about being away from their parents.

Panic Attacks

A panic attack is a sudden and powerful feeling. It can happen during an upsetting or frightening experience, or it can also happen for no reason at all. Here are some signs of a panic attack: