Childhood anxiety is more common than many people realize—yet it often goes unnoticed. Kids don’t always have the language to describe what they’re feeling, and many parents assume fear, worry, or clinginess are “just phases.” The truth is that anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health concerns in children today, and early support can make a profound difference in a child’s emotional development and long-term well-being.

How Common Is Childhood Anxiety?

• An estimated 7.1% of children ages 3–17 in the U.S. (approximately 4.4 million kids) have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

• Research suggests that up to 20% of children experience significant anxiety symptoms, whether or not they have received a diagnosis.

• About 76% of children with anxiety do not receive mental health treatment, often because symptoms are mistaken for personality traits or “normal childhood behavior.”

These numbers highlight why awareness is so important. Recognizing anxiety early helps prevent it from interfering with school, social life, family relationships, and self-esteem.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Childhood Anxiety

Anxiety can look very different in children compared to adults. While adults often describe worry, panic, and overwhelm, kids may express anxiety through behavior, emotions, or physical symptoms.

1. Emotional Signs

• Excessive worry about everyday situations

• Fear of being apart from parents

• Persistent self-doubt or fear of making mistakes

• Sudden frustration or irritability

2. Physical Symptoms

• Frequent stomachaches or headaches

• Rapid heart rate or shortness of breath

• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

• Fatigue even after adequate rest

3. Behavioral Signs

• Avoiding school, social situations, or new activities

• Clinging to parents

• Meltdowns or emotional outbursts that seem out of proportion

• Perfectionism or refusal to try tasks they might struggle with

What Causes Childhood Anxiety?

There is rarely a single cause. Anxiety often develops due to a combination of factors, including:

• Genetics: Children with anxious parents are more likely to experience anxiety themselves.

• Stressful life events: Moves, bullying, illness, family conflict, or academic pressure can trigger symptoms.

• Temperament: Some children are naturally more cautious or sensitive.

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin may play a role.

When to Seek Professional Help

Worries become a concern when they start to interfere with a child’s daily life. You may want to seek support if your child:

• Avoids school, friendships, or family activities

• Has intense worries that don’t match the situation

• Experiences physical symptoms that have no medical explanation

• Struggles to sleep or concentrate

• Becomes increasingly withdrawn or irritable

Early intervention teaches kids tools to cope with anxiety before it grows into a long-term struggle.

How Treatment Helps

Evidence-based therapy approaches—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), play therapy, and family-focused interventions—help children:

• Understand and express their feelings

• Challenge anxious thoughts

• Build confidence in handling stressful situations

• Strengthen coping skills they can use throughout life

If you’re noticing signs of anxiety in your child or if something just feels “off,” you don’t have to figure it out alone. Long Island Behavioral Health offers compassionate, evidence-based support for children and families navigating anxiety and emotional challenges. Early support can change the trajectory of a child’s life. Reach out today to schedule an appointment or ask questions about our services. Long Island Behavioral Health is here to help your child feel safe, confident, and understood.