When Worry Takes Over: When and How to Get Professional Help

When Everyday Worry Becomes a Concern

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns affecting children and adolescents in Australia. It is natural for children to feel worried from time to time, whether it is starting a new school year, trying something new for the first time, or navigating friendships. But for some children, worry becomes more than just a passing feeling. Below are some things to consider.

You might consider seeking professional support if your child:

● Worries constantly or seems “on edge”.

● Avoids social situations or school.

● Has frequent stomach aches or headaches with no clear medical cause.

● Has difficulty sleeping or eating due to worry.

● Anxious feelings are starting to impact on their daily activities.

If your child’s worry is impacting their happiness, relationships, or learning, it is okay to ask for help. Early intervention can be a helpful step in supporting their wellbeing and giving them tools to manage challenges before they become bigger concerns.

How Psychologists Support Kids and Families

A child psychologist is trained to understand the developmental, emotional, and behavioural challenges that children face. Using evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), play-based strategies, parent support, and collaboration with schools, child psychologists help children understand their emotions and develop practical coping skills.

Support often begins with an initial consultation and sometimes the use of assessment tools to understand what is going on for your child. This might include interviews, questionnaires, 1 or observations. From there, the psychologist can recommend strategies tailored to your child’s age, needs, and strengths.

Psychologists also work closely with families, because parents and caregivers play a central role in helping children build coping skills. You might be supported to develop routines, respond to your child’s worry in helpful ways, or reduce avoidance behaviours that reinforce anxiety.

Encouraging Help-Seeking Without Shame

One of the most powerful things you can do as a parent is to model healthy help-seeking. Just like we take our kids to the doctor when they are sick, visiting a psychologist is a way of caring for emotional health.

Talk about mental health openly. Normalise big feelings. Let your child know that worry is something many people experience, and that support is available if it becomes overwhelming.

Reaching out early can help children build the tools they need to manage anxiety as they get older. As a parent, you are not alone, and neither is your child. With the right support, children can learn to face their fears, build confidence, and thrive.

References:

● Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). (2024). Prevalence and impact of mental illness. Retrieved from https://www.aihw.gov.au/mental-health/overview/prevalence-and-impact-of-mental-illness

● NHS. (2023). Anxiety in children. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/children-and-young-adults/advice-for-parents/anxiety-in-children/

● Rapee, R. M., Kennedy, S., Ingram, M., Edwards, S., & Sweeney, L. (2009). Prevention and early intervention of anxiety disorders in inhibited preschool children. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 77(3), 525–534.

● American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Anxiety disorders. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/anxiety/disorders