With the exposure of children to this world, it isn’t always easy for parents to differentiate between normal growing up of children and depression. Kids have it hard these days. It may not seem like it when they are playing but they do find it hard to cope when they come across new situations and experiences. It’s normal to experience fear and become anxious for children but when they undergo through it more intensely than other children it’s termed as “Anxiety Disorder.” Do you think your child is struggling with anxiety? Here are some signs that might help you see.
- Sleep Issues: Toddlers with anxiety almost always have sleeping issues. They might have a hard time sleeping on their own and want their parent to lie down with them. Some even start worrying about sleep hours before bedtime.
- Rigidity in Routine: Anxious kids cannot make it through without routine and structure. They need to have their day planned out in a very predictable manner. These children become completely unglued if a change in the plan occurs. Change or transitions are a big no for them!
- Fears and Phobias: Now, let’s address the most perceptible sign of toddler anxiety – fears and phobias. You can easily discern the anxious children from the non-anxious children by scrutinizing the level of fear exhibited by them.
- Panic Attacks: An anxiety attack commonly known as a panic attack can cause hot flashes and sweating. Other manifestations include a racing or pounding heartbeat, quivering or shaking, shortness of breath, chest pain, giddiness, lightheadedness, prickling sensations, and chills.
- Picky Eater: Food is a common battle between parents and toddlers. Moms well know the tantrums thrown by their children while having food. But anxious toddlers take picky eating to another level! They are less inclined to try any new food at all. Even a slight change of the texture in their food haunts them.
- Fears Separation: Toddlers do follow their parent around the house but if the child faces panic attacks due to separation, it becomes a serious issue which the parents need to address. Irrespective of being right under their parent’s feet they start bawling and hovering around the door when their parent’s in the bathroom.
Bottom Line:
Fortunately, now that you know how to identify if your child is having an anxiety disorder, consult a therapist who will help you out in building a bright and happy future for your child. Why wait? Take the correct decision and watch your child flourish.