How to Recognize and Manage Anxiety and Depression in Children

When a child shows physical pain, a mother can quickly take them to a doctor and get treatment. But when a child suffers silently—showing sadness in their eyes, withdrawing socially, or appearing anxious without crying—it's harder to detect. These could be signs of anxiety or depression, which, if untreated, can seriously affect a child’s emotional and psychological development.

Expert Insights from Dr. Ahmed Mohieddin, Professor of Psychiatry

Psychological Facts to Keep in Mind:

There is a strong connection between a mother’s mental health and her child’s well-being; your calmness helps your child feel safe.
Don’t hesitate to seek support for yourself if you feel stressed or overwhelmed—you are the foundation of your child’s emotional security.
Anxiety and depression in children are not failures in parenting but conditions that need understanding and treatment.
Early intervention and family support can make a huge positive difference in your child’s future mental health.

Signs of Anxiety in Children:

Excessive fear of separation from parents or fear of specific situations or things (darkness, animals).
Generalized anxiety causing overthinking; panic attacks may include rapid heartbeat, breathing difficulty, or dizziness.
Sleep disturbances and nightmares; repeated unexplained physical complaints (headaches, stomach aches).
Frequent tantrums or irritability without clear cause.

Signs of Depression in Children:

Persistent sadness or noticeable mood changes.
Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
Fatigue or low energy.
Changes in appetite and weight.
Difficulty concentrating.
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness.
Talking about death or self-harm in severe cases.
Sudden or ongoing behavior changes, social withdrawal, declining school performance.

Parents and teachers should closely observe for these signs.

Causes of Anxiety and Depression in Children:

Family factors: Divorce, frequent conflicts, loss of a parent.
Bullying or school violence.
Traumatic experiences: accidents, abuse.
Genetic predisposition: family history of anxiety or depression.
Academic or social pressures beyond the child’s coping ability.

Ignoring these issues can lead to serious consequences, including behavioral problems, addiction, or chronic mental health conditions later in life.

Effects of Family Environment:

Parental anger, neglect, or inconsistent discipline can make a child feel isolated and lead to psychological issues.
Separation or loss of a parent is a significant risk factor.
Comparing children to siblings or relatives negatively impacts self-esteem.
Overprotectiveness can hinder social skills, causing isolation.
Excessive exposure to violent electronic games can worsen depression.
Physical punishment and verbal humiliation harm the child’s mental health.

Simple Steps to Help at Home:

Spend quality time listening to your child without judgment to build their sense of security.
Maintain a consistent daily routine with good sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity—even light exercise helps.
Reduce academic and extracurricular pressure.
Encourage your child to express emotions through drawing, writing, or play.
Avoid harsh punishment.
Keep track of behavioral changes and communicate with teachers to understand possible triggers.

When to Seek Professional Help:

Symptoms lasting more than two weeks.
Symptoms disrupting school, home life, or social relationships.
Any signs of self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

In such cases, seeing a doctor is critical. Treatment may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (helping the child change negative thought patterns), family therapy, or, in some cases, medication under careful supervision.