What to know about anxiety in children

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — With the school year starting and kids exposed to more pressures and stressful situations, they may start to experience more anxiety.

Dr. Charletta Dennis, medical director of behavioral health at Priority Health, said that anxiety symptoms can look different in kids of different ages. Small children may be extremely nervousness, have temper tantrums or feel sick to their stomach. Teens may isolate themselves or be irritable or angry.

“I think it’s very important for parents to really let their children know that they’re in a safe space. Let them know that we can talk about whatever it is that you’re going through,” Dennis told News 8 Tuesday.

She said sharing with your teens that you’ve experienced similar problems can help them feel comfortable.

“Having relatable conversations and making sure that they are aware that it’s OK to talk about what they’re going through,” Dennis said.

She added that parents should also address their own anxieties and model behaviors to manage those feelings, including the basics like eating and sleeping well.

For more information and help, Dennis pointed people to Priority’s ThinkHealth resources online and the Teledoc Health mental Health tool .

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