Distinguishing Between Anxiety and an Anxiety Disorder
A recent study revealed that approximately 43% of children aged six to 12 experience significant fears. Typically, these fears diminish as they enter middle childhood. Nevertheless, when these fears transform into episodes of anxiety that disrupt their daily lives, it becomes a matter of concern. A prominent indication of an anxiety disorder, which happens to be the most prevalent mental health problem among children, is the avoidance of specific situations, places, or individuals. It is important to note that “anxiety disorder” is a collective term encompassing various distinct conditions.
Common Triggers of Childhood Anxiety
Childhood anxiety can manifest in children as young as six months old, often stemming from separation anxiety when they are separated from their caregivers. However, this particular anxiety typically diminishes between the ages of two and three. In addition to separation anxiety, children commonly develop fears of bugs, animals, aliens, monsters, water, strangers, “bad guys,” or being alone in the dark. Fortunately, most of these anxieties tend to fade away naturally as the child progresses through different developmental stages.