Symptoms of anxiety in youth

• Emotional changes such as being “on edge” and irritable

• Trouble focusing and concentrating

• Fixation on habits or routines

• Restlessness and difficulty with sleep

• Avoidance of social interactions and isolation from peers

• Changes in eating habits

• Picking at nails or skin

• Pacing

• Physical symptoms (headaches, unexplained aches and pains, extreme tiredness) and chest pains, upset stomach, dizziness, and trouble breathing (these may signal a panic attack)

• Dramatic shifts in grades, missed assignments, and putting off work to the last minute are signs to look for in school too.