Why kids worry or have anxiety issues

Every human is born with an automatic response system (nervous) that produces a flight-or-fight response whenever we are faced with a situation that appears scary or takes us off guard. When we are met with an unexpected situation, there is a part of the brain that controls how we react, whether we choose to fight or take a flight. It is that part of the brain that brings about anxiety. It is the same for children. Some leading factors that add to the anxiety disorder in children include biological factors, family factors, and environmental factors.

Biological factors

There are special chemicals in the brain. These chemicals are called transmitters - serotonin and dopamine; they help send signals back and forth to control the reaction of a person to action. But sometimes, when neurotransmitters get out of hand, they can bring about an anxiety disorder where anxiety becomes uncontrollable.

Family factors

A child can inherit an anxiety disorder from his or her parent just the same way the child inherits physical features. Apart from this, the actions of parents toward their children may add to a child’s anxiety. For instance, when a parent agrees to the child’s anxiety of resuming classes and permits him or her to stay at home, that child is more likely to feel twice as anxious when resuming the next school day. Moreso, a child can also learn anxiety from the parent or other family member who frequently demonstrate actions borne out of anxiety. For instance, if a child lives with a parent or guardian who has OCD (obsessive compulsory disorder), the child will most likely grow into that disorder.

Environmental factors

An environmental factor that brings about a sudden and drastic change in the environment is a common contributor to anxiety in children. For instance, a disastrous experience like the death of a family member or divorce can trigger the anxiety disorder in children.