Anxiety is when a child feels very worried, scared, or nervous much of the time. It is not the same as a little worry before a test or a new day at school. Anxiety can make a child feel unsafe even when they are safe. At Daybreak Telepsych, we help children and families in Washington. We listen, we care and we offer real help.
Signs to Watch For
Here are some early mental health red flags. These are simple to watch for. If you notice many of these, it may help to talk to a doctor or therapist.
Changes in Feelings
- The child feels worried a lot.
- They say they are scared for no clear reason.
- They may seem sad or cling to you more than before, which is often a sign of preschool anxiety.
Changes in Behavior
- The child cries more than usual.
- They may have more angry outbursts.
- They avoid places or people they used to like.
Problems at School or Play
- The child has trouble making friends, which can be a symptom of social anxiety in kids.
- They refuse to go to school or complain about tummy aches on school days.
- They lose interest in games and fun activities.
Sleep Problems
- The child has trouble falling asleep.
- They wake up many times at night.
- They have bad dreams or say they feel unsafe in the dark.
Body Symptoms
- The child says their heart beats fast or they feel hot.
- They complain of headaches or stomach pain.
- They may feel shaky or tired all the time.
What Parents Can Do Right Away
You can help your child at home. Small steps can make a big difference.
Listen and Be Calm
- Sit with your child. Let them talk. Use short, kind words. Say things like, “I hear you.” Try not to rush them. Your calm voice helps them feel safe.
Make a Quiet Time
- Find a quiet place at home. Read a book together. Draw or do a simple puzzle. Quiet time can lower worry.
Keep a Simple Routine
- Children feel safer with the same daily plan. Try to keep mealtimes, playtime and sleep time similar every day. Routines help children know what to expect.
Teach Easy Breathing
- Show your child how to take slow breaths. Breathe in for three counts. Breathe out for three counts. Do this together for one minute. It can help when they feel upset.
Give Small Tasks
- Give the child easy jobs, like putting toys away or helping set the table. Finishing a small task can make them feel proud and less worried.
When to Get Professional Help
Some signs mean it is time to see a professional sooner rather than later, or to consider a professional child anxiety test.
- The worry lasts more than a few weeks.
- The child stops doing things they like.
- The worry makes it hard to go to school.
- The child talks about hurting themselves. If this happens, get help right away.
If you see these signs, we are here to help. We can talk with you about the next steps.
How Daybreak Telepsych Can Help
We offer mental health help for children and teens, including specialized care for anxiety disorders in teens. We also help adults and older adults. We work with families in Washington through telehealth. This means you can meet with us from home.
What We Do for Children and Teens
- We listen to you and your child.
- We provide a professional anxiety assessment for kids and check how the child feels at home and at school.
- We make a simple plan to help. The plan fits the child’s age and needs.
Easy and Kind Care
We know families are busy. We make visits easy. We use simple words. We teach skills your child can use every day. We also work with schools when you want us to.
Personalized Care
Every child is different. We do not use one plan for all. We make a plan that fits your child. We work with parents and caregivers. Together, we help the child feel safer and more hopeful.
What to Expect in a Visit
A visit can be a talk with a doctor or a therapist. We ask about sleep, school and play. We ask about feelings and how the child spends the day. We share simple ideas to try at home. We may meet more than once to see how the child is doing.
Tips to Share with Your Child
- You are safe.
- It is okay to tell us how you feel.
- Small steps help. Try one small thing each day.
- We are proud of you for trying.
Closing Note
If you think your child might be showing signs of anxiety, you do not have to do this alone. We at Daybreak Telepsych are ready to help. We offer kind, personal care for children and teens. We can meet with you from home in Washington. Call us or visit our website to learn more. We will listen and help you find the next step. You are not alone. We are here with you.
FAQs
Can the school help my child?
Yes. Tell the teacher and ask for extra support or a plan.
How can Daybreak Telepsych help?
We listen, make a simple plan and meet you from home in Washington.
