Anxiety in children is rising – here’s what parents need to know

Anxiety is the biggest concern for young people reaching out to Childline

More children than ever are turning to Childline for support with anxiety, with the NSPCC-run service delivering over 6,600 counselling sessions on the issue between April and September 2024. That’s almost a quarter (24%) of all mental health-related calls during this period.

This increase comes as young people report feeling overwhelmed by pressures from school, social media, and concerns about the future. Events such as climate change, political unrest and global conflicts are also adding to their anxiety, according to Childline.

This surge in calls is being highlighted as part of Children’s Mental Health Week (3rd – 9th February), organised by the charity Place2Be. This year’s theme, Know Yourself, Grow Yourself, aims to help children develop self-awareness and resilience.

What’s causing anxiety in young people?

While every child’s experience is unique, common triggers for anxiety include:

• Bullying: whether online or in-person, bullying can have a huge impact on a child’s mental health.
• Body image pressures: social media and unrealistic beauty standards can contribute to low self-esteem.
• School stress: from exams to friendship difficulties, school life can feel overwhelming.
• Global and social issues: world events, climate change and political uncertainty are worrying young people.

One 11-year-old girl told Childline:

I’m so self-conscious of how I look, my personality, what people think about me. It makes me feel anxious. I know everyone is different, but I feel different in a bad way.

What parents can do to help

Supporting a child with anxiety can feel challenging, but small steps can make a big difference. Here are some expert-backed strategies:

1. Talk openly about feelings: Encourage your child to express their emotions without fear of judgment. Let them know that anxiety is a normal feeling and that they are not alone.
2. Identify triggers together: Work with your child to pinpoint specific situations that make them feel anxious. Understanding what’s causing their worries can help them manage them more effectively.
3. Promote healthy habits: A consistent sleep routine, balanced diet and regular physical activity can help regulate emotions and reduce stress levels.
4. Teach simple coping techniques: Try deep breathing exercises together – inhale for five seconds, then exhale for five. Mindfulness and grounding techniques (such as focusing on five things you can see, four things you can touch, etc.) can also help ease anxious feelings.
5. Seek additional support if needed: If anxiety is affecting your child’s daily life, professional support might be needed. Childline offers free, 24/7 confidential counselling, and charities like Place2Be provide resources for parents and schools.

“Young people are facing more pressure than ever”

Shaun Friel, Childline Director, says that anxiety is becoming a major issue for children:

It’s deeply concerning that so many young people are reaching out to us because they’re struggling with anxiety. We know how overwhelming these feelings can be, often leaving children feeling trapped and unsure where to turn. This Children’s Mental Health Week, we want every child to know that they are not alone. Childline is here to provide a safe, confidential space to talk about whatever is worrying them – at any time of the day or night.

Cecilia Corbetta, Head of Parenting at Place2Be, adds that helping children understand their emotions is key:

It’s so important for children to have the space and support to understand their emotions and develop positive ways to cope with challenges. Our Know Yourself, Grow Yourself campaign is encouraging children to explore who they are and build confidence in themselves.

Where to find support

• Childline: Available 24/7 at 0800 1111 or via the 1-2-1 chat on the Childline website.
• Place2Be: Offers guidance for parents on its Parenting Smart page.
• YoungMinds: Provides mental health support and advice for young people.

If your child is struggling with anxiety, reminding them they are not alone is the first step. With the right support, they can build confidence, resilience, and a sense of hope for the future.

Read more:

• Children’s Mental Health Week 2025: What parents need to know
• Thousands of children turn to Childline as loneliness takes a toll on mental health
• Study shows how saliva could reveal mental health struggles during pregnancy