Anxiety in kidsPersonalized guidance and support for your child

UW Health Kids Behavioral Health experts, including pediatric psychiatrists, psychologists and licensed therapists, help children and their families manage the many forms of anxiety.

Types of anxiety

When fear and worry become too much

We diagnose and treat all types of anxiety disorders.

Childhood fears of the dark or strangers are normal. But if your child’s fears are extreme or keep them from everyday activities, UW Health Kids specialists can help. Anxiety occurs when fear or worries overwhelm your child or change their behavior.

Types of anxiety

Your child tries to avoid open or public places and events that make them worry.

Uncontrolled, extreme worry about activities or situations.

Intense anxiety and terror in response to a fear. Your child might worry about another panic attack or avoid activities where a panic attack occurred.

Excessive fears of specific situations or things, such as dogs.

Your child does not speak in certain situations, like at school.

Extreme fear of being separated from parents or other trusted adults.

Fear of social situations and feelings of embarrassment or self-consciousness.

Intense anxiety caused by medicines, misusing drugs or withdrawal.

Symptoms

Signs your child might be struggling with anxiety

Anxiety symptoms differ for each child. Watch for these common behaviors.

It can be tough to pinpoint anxiety. Over time, you might notice patterns, like a frequent stomach ache before school. Or you might get reports of perfect behavior from a classroom teacher but deal with meltdowns outside of school.

Symptoms of anxiety can include:

  • Avoidance of school, other activities

  • Being a perfectionist

  • Controlling behaviors

  • Dizziness

  • Excessive worrying

  • Fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Racing heartbeat

  • Restlessness

  • Stomach aches

  • Sweating

  • Tantrums

  • Trouble sleeping

Treatments

Helping kids cope with anxiety

We provide the help your child needs to manage and overcome their fears. We find the right treatment for your child’s anxiety. Treatment could include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (talk therapy)

  • Family therapy

  • Group therapy

  • Individual therapy

  • Inpatient care

  • Medicines

  • Parent coaching and training

  • Partial hospitalization psychiatric care

  • Relaxation and coping strategies

  • Stress management

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UW Health Kids
Our pediatric experts have served the special needs of children for more than 100 years. We focus on each child’s unique needs and offer social and emotional support to help you and your child face even the most complex condition. Our long history includes the creation of medical advances that save lives around the world. Together, we get your child back to health and enjoying being a kid.
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Meet our team

Expert pediatric anxiety care

The UW Health Kids anxiety care team includes pediatric experts in behavioral health, psychiatry and psychology.

Pediatric psychiatry
Pediatric psychology
Behavioral health

Locations

Find the care your family needs

We provide anxiety care at UW Health clinics in Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

Patient support services

Learn how to support your child

We can help you learn how to recognize anxiety and help your child manage their fears and worries.

Anxiety support resources for parents

Learn the difference between normal fears and anxiety in children. Read more

Mental and Behavioral Health

Promoting well-being, healing and recovery.

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