Anxiety is a normal part of childhood, and every child goes through phases. The difference between a phase and an anxiety disorder is that a phase is temporary and usually harmless. Children who suffer from an anxiety disorder experience fear, nervousness, and shyness, and they start to avoid places and activities.

A child who sees a scary movie and then has trouble falling asleep or has a similar temporary fear can be reassured and comforted. But that is not enough to help a child with an anxiety disorder get past his or her fear and anxiety.

Anxiety disorders affect one in eight children. Research has shown that if left untreated, children with anxiety disorders are at higher risk to perform poorly in school, miss out on important social experiences, and engage in substance abuse.

Anxiety disorders also often co-occur with other disorders such as depression, eating disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The good news is that with treatment and your support, your child can learn how to successfully manage the symptoms of an anxiety disorder and live a normal childhood.

The following sections will help you get started:

• Childhood anxiety disorders
• Anxiety and depression
• Treatment
• Tips for parents and caregivers
• Anxiety disorders at school
• School refusal
• Test anxiety