Anxiety in Children: When Worry Becomes Something More

Every child worries from time to time about school, friends, family, or bedtime monsters. But what happens when worry becomes something more? How do you know if your child’s fear of thunderstorms or reluctance to attend school is part of healthy development or something that might need extra support?

At Bridgeway Integrated Healthcare Services, we provide behavioral health, primary care, and educational support across Utah from Taylorsville to St. George, and work with families every day who are navigating these questions. This guide will help you understand when childhood worry may indicate anxiety, what to watch for, and how to take supportive next steps.

Understanding Anxiety in Children

Anxiety is a natural part of life; it helps us prepare, stay alert, and respond to danger. Children, like adults, experience anxiety in new or unfamiliar situations. These feelings often show up around school transitions, family changes, social interactions, or even routine tasks.

But when those worries become persistent, excessive, or interfere with daily functioning, they may signal an anxiety disorder.

According to the CDC, approximately 9.4% of children ages 3–17 in the United States have been diagnosed with anxiety. But many more children may experience symptoms that go unrecognized.

What’s Normal and What’s Not?

It’s important to remember that some fears are age-appropriate. For example:

These fears usually fade as children grow, especially when supported by routines and reassurance.

But if the intensity or frequency of these fears interferes with your child’s ability to enjoy life, participate in activities, or form relationships, it may be time to explore further support.

Signs Your Child’s Worry Might Be Anxiety

Children don’t always say “I feel anxious.” Instead, anxiety may show up in physical or behavioral ways:

• Frequent headaches or stomachaches with no medical cause
• Trouble falling or staying asleep
• Avoidance of school, social events, or new situations
• Clinginess or separation issues beyond expected age
• Excessive reassurance seeking (“Will I be okay? Are you sure?”)
• Meltdowns, irritability, or anger over small triggers
• Repetitive behaviors (e.g., checking, hand washing, perfectionism)
• Difficulty concentrating
• Negative self-talk or fear of making mistakes

If these signs persist for weeks or months and affect daily life, it may indicate that your child needs additional support.

Need help in Taylorsville, Lehi, Salt Lake City, or Cedar City? Bridgeway offers mental health therapy for children and primary care for families across Utah.

Common Anxiety Conditions in Children

If your child’s worry is interfering with their well-being, they may be experiencing one of several types of anxiety conditions. A qualified professional can help determine the best fit.

1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Children with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) worry about many things: school, health, the future, even when there’s no clear reason. The worry feels constant and hard to turn off.

2. Separation Anxiety Disorder

This is more than the typical “don’t leave me!” behavior seen in toddlers. Children with separation anxiety may feel panicked or sick when apart from caregivers and may refuse school or sleepovers.

3. Social Anxiety Disorder

Children with social anxiety may avoid speaking in class, joining group activities, or attending events out of fear of embarrassment or judgment.

4. Specific Phobias

An intense fear of a particular thing (e.g., dogs, storms, needles) can cause significant distress, even when the threat is minimal.

5. Panic Disorder

Though less common in younger children, panic disorder involves sudden episodes of intense fear that include symptoms like a racing heart, dizziness, shortness of breath, or feeling like something bad will happen

What Causes Anxiety in Children?

There is no single cause. Instead, anxiety often stems from a mix of factors:

• Biology: Some children are naturally more sensitive or cautious.
• Family History: Anxiety can run in families.
• Environment: Stressful events (like illness, divorce, or moving) can trigger anxiety.
• Learned Behavior: Children may adopt anxious responses from adults or siblings.
• Medical Conditions: Thyroid issues or other physical health conditions can contribute to anxious symptoms.

That’s why Bridgeway’s integrated care model, which combines therapy, primary care, and behavioral support, is so helpful for Utah families. We address the whole child, not just isolated symptoms.