All children go through stages of anxiousness at certain ages and stages of development, such as the fear of the dark, or starting a new school or program.
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Anxiety becomes a problem when children do not grow out of these stages of fear and it becomes excessive and extreme.
Problem anxiety interferes with a child’s ability to engage in age-appropriate activities, socialize, learn, and develop self-confidence. Anxious feelings are usually accompanied by physical sensations such as a churning stomach, headaches, light-headedness, trembling, numbness, and/or a racing heart. Behaviours may include seeking constant reassurance, frequent crying or tantrums, avoidance such as refusing to do things or go places, and difficulties with going to sleep.
Anxious thoughts present as negative thinking patterns such as perfectionism, imagining the worst possible outcomes, or believing that he or she is unable to cope with normal life challenges.
Although the experience of anxiety will vary from child to child, feeling excessively stressed, worried, overwhelmed and/or fearful is common. Fortunately, children and youth can learn methods to manage their anxiety. Family support plays a key role.
Attached is an Anxiety workbook for children called: Might Moe
For more information contact Jo Burrows creatingcalm@cvfsa.org