Anxiety

Anxiety is a stress-related response that is often characterized by worry, concern, fear, and nervousness. The state of anxiety was once considered to be normal in the developmental process. It is not uncommon for children and adolescents to experience feelings of anxiety in situations such as the first day of school, the first date, giving presentations, or taking exams. Such mild, brief anxiety may actually help the individual stay alert and focused on tasks as well as face challenging or dangerous situations. However, persistent and excessive anxiety can lead to negative outcomes with regard to youths’ interpersonal relationships, social competence, and school adjustment if left untreated. Resistance to going to school, an inability to concentrate, difficulty with friends, and sleep problems on an ongoing basis are potential indicators of anxiety.

Beginning at a very young age, children begin to experience feelings of anxiety around strangers or during separation from primary...