All children experience anxiety and fear. This is expected and normal in development. Sometimes, however, these emotions become severe and disrupt the lives of children and their family members. When this happens, the family should seek help.

Some anxious children have constant thoughts and fears about their safety, refuse to go to school, or experience frequent stomachaches, headaches, or other physical problems.

Anxious children typically seek constant reassurance, and their anxious feelings interfere at school, home and with friends.

Children who are excessively anxious may be afraid to meet or talk to new people. They worry about loved ones, school performance, health, and about making friends.

Other anxious children are afraid of specific things such as dogs, darkness, or needles, and these fears cause significant anguish.