Supporting Your Child Through Anxiety
Evidence-based strategies, interactive learning, and daily support to help you become your child's anxiety ally.
UK children (8-16) have anxiety disorders
US adolescents experience anxiety in their lifetime
Parental involvement significantly improves outcomes
Daily Practice Streak
Knowledge Quiz
Test your understanding of anxiety support strategies! This quiz covers recognition, validation, exposure therapy, and professional guidance.
Today's Challenges
Model Calm Coping
Verbalize your coping strategy when stressed: 'I'm worried, so I'll take deep breaths'
Celebrate Small Wins
Acknowledge and praise brave behavior (not just outcomes)
Understand Physical Symptoms
Read about how anxiety manifests physically (stomachaches, headaches, fatigue)
Achievements
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Understanding Your Child's Anxiety
Anxiety is not a choice. It's a real condition with physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms.
Physical Manifestations
Stomachaches & Headaches
Without medical cause, often before school
Sleep Difficulties
Trouble falling asleep, nightmares, night waking
Fatigue & Restlessness
Always tired yet unable to relax
Muscle Tension
Clenched jaw, tense shoulders
Appetite Changes
Eating more or less than usual
Rapid Heartbeat
Pounding heart, especially during stress
Important: These symptoms are REAL, not fabricated. The stress response causes genuine physical reactions.
Evidence-Based Strategies for Parents
Research-backed approaches that make a difference
When to Seek Professional Help
Contact a mental health professional if:
Anxiety interferes with school, friendships, or family life
Physical symptoms lead to school avoidance
Panic attacks
Excessive rituals or checking behaviors
Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
No improvement after 4-6 weeks of home strategies
First-Line Treatment: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
NICE guidelines recommend CBT as first-line treatment for anxiety disorders. CBT teaches children to identify and challenge anxious thoughts, develop coping skills, and face fears gradually. Parent involvement significantly improves outcomes.
If you're in crisis or having thoughts of self-harm
Please reach out for immediate support. You don't have to face this alone. These services are free, confidential, and available 24/7.
United Kingdom Resources
United States Resources
When to Seek Emergency Help
- •You're having thoughts of harming yourself or suicide
- •You have a plan to end your life
- •You're feeling unable to cope or keep yourself safe
- •Your anxiety is so severe you can't function
- •You're experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other severe physical symptoms