Submit a Story Idea

How to Tell if Your Child is Stressed or Anxious

Published in Seaside, Oregon | Apr 8, 2023 | Health & Fitness Mental Health Providers Pediatricians | 2 min. read

When your child is stressed or anxious, their feelings may manifest in ways that are different than those of adults. Some of these signs will be similar to those your child experiences on a typical day, so they can be difficult to detect. Here are a few clues that might tell you your child is anxious or stressed.

Infants

Your baby may show signs of stress and anxiety if they cry more than usual or have trouble sleeping. Your child may break down when you leave them with a caregiver, babysitter, or in a daycare center. Your infant may also be fussy, irritable, and have trouble feeding.

Toddlers

Physical symptoms, such as sweating or trembling, can be signs of anxiety or stress. Your toddler may act apprehensive, be withdrawn, or have frequent tantrums. They may also have difficulty sleeping or show a powerful interest in particular topics. They may even refuse to eat and exhibit other physical symptoms of stress. They may show signs of acting unusually clingy or out of character.

Preschoolers

Between the ages of three and five, children are more able to verbalize their feelings. They can tell you that they are afraid of monsters or of being alone at night. They may also become clingy or even aggressive. Your child will probably be able to tell you what they’re stressed about, but they might not be able to explain why they are experiencing these feelings.

School-Age Children

Many children become very anxious when asked to do something new or unfamiliar. Some children may even be unwilling to leave the house and have problems with homework. They may start pulling away from school or neighborhood friends and refuse to try new things. They may also exhibit symptoms of depression, like isolation, withdrawal, or impulsivity.

What Should Parents Do When Their Child Is Experiencing Stress or Anxiety?

Many times, simply talking to your child and helping them work through the cause of their stress or anxiety can help. However, if the symptoms are consistent or worsening, you may want to plan for an appointment with their local doctor. The doctor can help determine if your child is dealing with chronic stress or anxiety, discuss potential causes, and provide recommendations or treatment plans.

Other WhirLocal Neighborhoods in Oregon

Albany Area
Ashland Area
Astoria-Warrenton Area
Bandon Area
Beaverton Area
Bend Area
Canby Area
Central Portland
Corvallis Area
Dallas Area
East Portland
Eugene Area
Forest Grove Area
Grants Pass Area
Gresham Area
Hillsboro Area
Keizer Area
Klamath Falls Area
Lake Oswego Area
Lebanon Area
Lincoln City Area
McMinnville Area
Medford Area
Milton-Freewater Area
Molalla Area
Monmouth-Independence Area
Newberg Area
Newport Area
North Portland
Northeast Portland
Ontario Area
Oregon City Area
Pendleton Area
Prineville Area
Redmond Area
Roseburg Area
Salem Area
Seaside Area
Sherwood Area
Silverton-Mt Angel Area
Southeast Portland
Southern Oregon Coast
Springfield Area
Stayton Sublimity Area
Tigard Area
Tillamook Area
Tualatin Area
West Columbia Gorge Area
West Linn Area
West Portland
Wilsonville Area
Woodburn Area
10
By using our website, you consent to our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and Terms Of Service.