Anxiety in children: what parents can do
Anxiety in children is a growing concern for many Australian families, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood aspects of childhood development. As conversations around mental health become more common in the lead-up to Mental Health Day, parents are hearing more about anxiety than ever before. While this increased awareness is positive, it can also make it difficult to know when normal worries become something more.
Feeling nervous before a test, starting a new school or trying out for a sports team is a natural part of growing up. In fact, these experiences help children develop resilience and confidence. Anxiety becomes a concern when it is persistent, intense or begins to interfere with everyday life.
For parents, recognising the early signs and responding with confidence can make a significant difference. With the right support, most children learn to manage anxiety effectively and continue to thrive at home, at school and beyond.
Why anxiety is becoming more common
Australian research shows that anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions affecting young people. The landmark Young Minds Matter survey found that around one in seven Australian children and adolescents experienced a mental health disorder within a 12-month period, with anxiety disorders among the most prevalent. More recent national research is underway to better understand how children’s mental health has changed in recent years, reflecting growing concern across Australia.
At the same time, Beyond Blue reports that 60 per cent of parents with primary school-aged children are seriously concerned about their child’s mental health. Bullying, screen time, social media and academic pressures are among the issues parents worry about most.
Today’s children face challenges previous generations did not experience. Constant digital connection, exposure to world events, changing friendships and increasing academic expectations can all contribute to heightened stress. That does not mean these factors automatically cause anxiety, but they can influence how children experience and manage difficult emotions.
What anxiety looks like at different ages
One of the challenges with anxiety in children is that it rarely looks the same from one child to another. Some children express their worries openly, while others hide them remarkably well.
Young children may become clingy, cry more often or refuse to separate from their parents. They might complain of stomach aches before preschool or school, even though there is no medical cause. Sleep difficulties, irritability and frequent reassurance seeking can also be early signs.
Primary-aged children often begin worrying about friendships, school performance or making mistakes. Some avoid activities they once enjoyed because they fear embarrassment or failure. Others become perfectionists, spending excessive time on homework or becoming distressed when things are not “just right.”
Teenagers frequently experience anxiety differently again. Rather than appearing worried, they may withdraw from family activities, become unusually irritable or avoid social situations. Physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue or difficulty concentrating may become more noticeable than emotional ones.
The common thread across every age group is that anxiety begins limiting a child’s ability to participate fully in everyday life.
Signs parents sometimes overlook
Many parents expect anxiety to look dramatic. In reality, the signs are often subtle.
A child who constantly asks, “What if something goes wrong?” may not simply be cautious. A teenager who suddenly wants to skip activities they once loved may not just be losing interest. Even frequent perfectionism can sometimes reflect anxiety rather than motivation.
Parents should also pay attention to physical symptoms. Children often experience anxiety in their bodies before they can explain it in words. Ongoing stomach aches, headaches, muscle tension or trouble sleeping deserve attention, particularly if they occur before school or stressful events.
Changes in eating habits, declining school engagement or becoming unusually dependent on parents may also signal that something deeper is happening.
What parents can do
The instinct to protect children from uncomfortable situations is completely understandable. However, avoiding every challenge can unintentionally strengthen anxiety over time.
Instead, aim to become your child’s coach rather than their rescuer.
Start by listening carefully without rushing to solve the problem. Children often benefit most from feeling heard before receiving advice. Phrases such as, “That sounds really difficult,” or “I can understand why you feel worried,” acknowledge their emotions without reinforcing fear.
Next, help children break overwhelming situations into manageable steps. A child anxious about giving a class presentation may first practise at home, then in front of family members before presenting at school.
Confidence grows through experience, not reassurance alone.
Parents also play an important role by modelling healthy responses to stress. Children notice how adults manage disappointment, uncertainty and setbacks. Demonstrating calm problem-solving teaches powerful coping skills that extend well beyond childhood.
Build everyday habits that support mental wellbeing
Supporting children’s mental health does not require perfect parenting. Small daily habits often have the greatest impact.
Consistent sleep routines help regulate emotions and improve resilience. Regular physical activity reduces stress while boosting mood and concentration. Family meals create valuable opportunities for connection, particularly during busy school weeks.
Open conversations matter too. Instead of asking, “Did you have a good day?” try questions such as, “What challenged you today?” or “What made you feel proud?” These prompts encourage children to reflect on both successes and struggles.
Healthy technology habits are equally important. Screens are part of modern life, but balance matters. Creating device-free family time encourages conversation and gives children space to recharge away from constant digital stimulation.
When should parents seek professional help?
Not every worry requires professional intervention. Childhood naturally includes moments of fear, uncertainty and self-doubt.
However, parents should seek advice if anxiety lasts for several weeks, significantly disrupts school attendance, friendships or family life, or causes intense emotional or physical distress.
Speaking with a GP is often the best first step. They can assess symptoms and recommend appropriate support if needed. School wellbeing teams and counsellors can also work alongside families to help children develop practical strategies.
Early support is important because anxiety responds well to evidence-based treatment. Seeking help is not a sign that a child is failing. It is simply another way of supporting their healthy development.
Creating confident, resilient children
Every child experiences worry from time to time. The goal is not to eliminate anxiety altogether but to help children understand that difficult emotions are manageable.
When children learn that they can face challenges, recover from setbacks and ask for help when needed, they develop resilience that will serve them throughout life.
Parents do not need to have all the answers. Simply creating a safe environment where children feel heard, supported and encouraged to face challenges is one of the most powerful protective factors for lifelong mental wellbeing.
At All Saints Grammar, we believe education extends beyond academic achievement. We are committed to nurturing confident, resilient and compassionate boys and girls from PreKinder to Year 12 through a caring community that values wellbeing alongside learning. By partnering closely with families and creating supportive learning environments, we help students develop the skills and confidence they need to flourish both at school and throughout life. To learn more about how we are shaping bright minds, kind hearts and bold spirits download our prospectus.
