Therapists Identify Six Overlooked Sources of Anxiety in Children

Child and family therapists with experience working with over 1,000 children have identified six common sources of anxiety that often go unnoticed by parents, highlighting the growing mental health challenges faced by children today.

According to Ashley Graber and Maria Evans, seasoned child and family therapists, many parents remain unaware of the issues that most frequently cause their children stress and anxiety. Drawing from years of direct experience, these professionals outlined six major areas of concern for children.

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First, social dynamics play a pivotal role in childhood anxiety. Children often worry about fitting in and being accepted, especially when they feel different due to appearance, interests, or background.

Second, social media intensifies these social pressures, negatively affecting self-esteem as children compare themselves to idealized versions of others online. Unsupervised use can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and increase anxiety.

Third, big life changes or disruptions such as moving, changing schools, or family transitions can be unsettling. Even positive changes may initially be perceived as losses by children.

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Fourth, a packed schedule leaves little time for rest or unstructured play, depriving children of essential opportunities to process emotions and recover from stress.

Fifth, inconsistency in routines or caregiving—such as unpredictable schedules or conflicting messages from adults—can lead to heightened anxiety.

Finally, trauma, even from seemingly minor events like a dog bite or witnessing an accident, can trigger lasting fear and stress responses in children.

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These insights aim to help parents better understand and support their children’s emotional well-being.