Adolescence can be an emotional time for most kids. But middle- and high-schoolers with learning and attention issues may experience more stress than their peers. They may also be more likely to develop anxiety.
Most kids who develop trouble with anxiety do so before puberty. But some older kids can develop anxiety, too. Here are some signs to watch out for, according to John Piacentini, Ph.D., and Lindsey Bergman, Ph.D., experts from the UCLA Child Anxiety Resilience Education and Support (CARES) Center.
If your tween or teen is showing these symptoms, consider talking to his teachers and doctor about what you’re seeing.
Signs Your Tween or Teen Might Be Struggling With Anxiety (View / Download)
Physical Signs of Anxiety
- Frequently complains of headaches or stomachaches, with no medical reason.
- Refuses to eat in the school cafeteria or other public places.
- Changes her eating habits suddenly.
- Won’t use restrooms away from home.
- Gets restless, fidgety, hyperactive or distracted (but doesn’t necessarily have ADHD).
- Starts to shake or sweat in intimidating situations.
- Constantly tenses her muscles.
- Has trouble falling or staying asleep.
Emotional Signs of Anxiety
- Cries often.
- Becomes cranky or angry for no clear reason.
- Is afraid of making even minor mistakes.
- Has extreme test anxiety.
- Doubts her skills and abilities, even when there’s no reason to.
- Can’t handle any criticism, no matter how constructive.
- Has panic attacks (or is afraid of having panic attacks).
- Has pressing phobias (about bees, dogs, etc.) or excessive fears about natural disasters or large-scale accidents.
- Is afraid people will find out about her learning and attention issues (more so than other kids with the same issues).
- Worries about things way off in the future (for example, a high school freshman worries about college applications).
- Often has nightmares about losing a parent or loved one.
- Has obsessive thoughts or worries about things that might cause her harm, or other upsetting topics.
Behavioral Signs of Anxiety
- Avoids participating in class activities.
- Remains silent or preoccupied when expected to work with others.
- Refuses to go to school.
- Avoids social situations with peers after school or on weekends (extracurricular activities, dates, school dances, etc.).
- Refuses to speak to peers or strangers in stores, restaurants, etc.
- Becomes emotional or angry when separating from parents or loved ones.
- Begins to have explosive outbursts.
- Starts withdrawing from activities she once loved.
- Constantly seeks approval from parents, teachers and friends.
- Engages in excessive hand washing, arranging, tapping or other compulsive behaviors.
Learn more about anxiety and common fears of kids with learning and attention issues. Find out when to seek help for mental health issues. And explore Parenting Coach for expert tips on how to help older kids deal with anxiety.