Anxiety or Mood for children in Australian Capital Territory

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne says anxiety is a normal and healthy reaction to stress. It says that if a child's feelings do not go away and affect daily activities, they may have an anxiety disorder. Emerging Minds says that if anxious feelings last a long time, cause distress or stop your child doing things that matter to them, like going to school or seeing friends, they may need support to learn to manage these feelings.

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne lists tantrums or meltdowns, seeking reassurance often, trouble sleeping, and stomach aches and headaches among the signs of anxiety. Emerging Minds says toddlers and preschoolers aged 2 to 4 years tend to feel anxious about changes in their routine and about being away from parents or with unfamiliar people, such as at childcare or preschool. It also says some children may seem to be coping but are holding onto a lot of worry on the inside.

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne says to talk with your child about their feelings and to support them in slowly doing the things that make them feel anxious. It says to praise your child when they do things they prefer to avoid, and to try not to let your child avoid things that make them anxious, because avoidance can quickly become a pattern that is hard to break. Emerging Minds says forcing a child to confront the things that make them anxious does not help either.

The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne says it is best to get help if your child seems excessively worried or anxious, feels anxious most of the time, or stops taking part in typical daily activities. It says to start by speaking with your child's doctor or another trusted healthcare provider. It says children with ongoing and severe anxiety may benefit from psychological treatments like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Emerging Minds says anxiety in children is treatable, and getting help early can prevent it becoming a bigger problem.

The Child and Adolescent Health Service in Western Australia says that if you are concerned about significant changes in your child’s health or development, you can contact your GP. Kids Helpline offers free phone and online counselling for people aged 5 to 25 years on 1800 55 1800. If your child is having suicidal thoughts and is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000).