Bedford Behavioral Health

07/12/2025

07/30/2024

ANXIETY IN CHILDREN

Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric disorder in children and adolescents.

Today's teens and young adults are the most anxious ever, according to mental-health surveys. They admit it themselves: In February, a Pew survey found that 70 percent of teens say anxiety and depression is a "major problem" among their peers, and an additional 26 percent say it's a minor problem.

You can help your child learn to manage everyday anxiety.
If your child shows signs of anxiety, there are some general strategies you can try at home. If your child is being treated for anxiety by a professional, you should discuss these strategies with the professional first.
- Acknowledge your child’s fear – don’t dismiss or ignore it. Let your child know you’re there to support and care for them.
- Gently encourage your child to do the things they're anxious about. But don’t force them to face situations they don’t want to face.
- Wait until your child actually gets anxious before you step in to help.
- Praise your child for doing something they're feeling anxious about.
- Avoid labelling your child as ‘shy’ or ‘anxious’. Try to refer to them as ‘brave’ or another positive term. After all, your child is trying to overcome their difficulties.
- Try to be a good role model for managing your own stress and dealing with your own anxiety.



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