Study Shows Rising Cases of Anxiety in Children – Expert Shares Causes and Preventive Tips

A recent study, published in JAMA Network Open, showed a steady rise in cases of anxiety among children. The findings stated that primary care visits that included a mental health diagnosis spiked from about 6 visits per 100 children in 2014 to nearly 10 visits per 100 children in 2023. Visits related to anxiety saw the highest change, rising by 300% over the decade. Why are cases of anxiety on the rise among children and what can be done to protect kids’ mental health? Read on to know the answers to these.

To understand this better, we reached out to Dr Abhishek Chopra, Senior Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist at Cloudnine Group of hospitals, Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi.

Why Are Cases of Anxiety Rising Among Children?

Dr Chopra says that anxiety in children has become a growing concern worldwide, with many studies reporting a noticeable rise in emotional stress, fear, nervousness, and behavioural issues among young children and teenagers. 

The expert explains, “While occasional worry is a normal part of growing up, persistent anxiety can affect a child’s academic performance, sleep, social relationships, and overall wellbeing. Experts believe that a combination of modern lifestyle factors, environmental pressures, and emotional challenges are contributing to this increase.” 

Factors That Lead to Rising Anxiety in Children

Dr Chopra lists some causes and factors behind rising cases of anxiety in children:

Academic Pressure

One major reason for rising anxiety levels in children is academic pressure. Many children face expectations to perform exceptionally well in school, participate in multiple extracurricular activities, and constantly compete with peers. This pressure can create fear of failure and low self-esteem, especially when children feel their worth depends on achievements.

Social Media

Excessive screen time and social media exposure are also playing a significant role. Constant comparison with others online, exposure to disturbing content, cyberbullying, and reduced real-life social interaction can negatively impact mental health. Younger children may also struggle to process the overwhelming amount of information they consume digitally.

Complex Family Dynamics

Changes in family dynamics can contribute as well. Busy schedules, lack of quality family time, parental stress, conflicts at home, or separation can make children feel emotionally insecure. Children are highly sensitive to the emotional environment around them and may absorb stress even when adults think they are shielding them.

Covid-19 Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic and its long-term effects have also increased anxiety in many children. Social isolation, disrupted routines, fear of illness, and increased dependence on digital devices affected emotional development and coping skills in many age groups.

Poor Lifestyle Habits 

Sleep deprivation, unhealthy eating habits, and lack of physical activity can further worsen anxiety symptoms. Poor lifestyle habits affect brain health, emotional regulation, and stress management abilities in children.

Tips to Protect Your Child’s Mental Health

Dr Chopra says that parents and caregivers can take several steps to help protect children from anxiety and support emotional wellbeing. On this note, the expert lists the following tips:

• Creating a safe and open environment for communication is extremely important. Children should feel comfortable expressing their emotions without fear of criticism or punishment.
• Listening calmly and validating their feelings can help them feel supported.
• Maintaining healthy routines also plays a major role. Adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and limited screen time help improve emotional stability and resilience.
• Outdoor play and hobbies can reduce stress and improve confidence.
• Parents should avoid placing unrealistic expectations on children. Encouraging effort rather than perfection can reduce performance-related stress.
• Teaching children healthy coping skills such as deep breathing, mindfulness, journaling, or talking about feelings can also help them manage anxiety better.
• Spending quality family time strengthens emotional security. Simple activities such as eating meals together, reading, playing games, or going for walks can help children feel connected and supported.

“If anxiety starts interfering with daily life, school, friendships, appetite, or sleep, professional help from a child psychologist or counsellor may be beneficial,” concludes Dr Chopra.

ALSO READ- Is Lack of Sleep Impacting Your Child’s Mental Health? A Paediatrician Elucidates

Conclusion

Protecting children’s mental health requires patience, emotional support, and a balanced environment where children feel safe, understood, and valued beyond their achievements. Early intervention can help children develop healthy coping mechanisms and prevent long-term emotional difficulties such as anxiety.