Regular routines around bedtimes and getting ready for school can help very young children with separation anxiety. There may be books or games that can help children to understand upsetting things such as serious illness, separation or bereavement. Children over the age of five often find it helpful to talk about their worries to an understanding adult. They may need comfort, reassurance and practical help with how to cope. If your child is showing signs of anxiety, you can show them you care and want to understand the reason why.
All families have times when they have to deal with a lot of stress and worry.
At times like these, you or your child might need extra help and support from friends, family members or others. Your general practitioner will be able to advise you, and may suggest referral to the local child and adolescent mental health service. The specialist help offered here will depend on what is causing the anxiety. Basically, it will involve finding ways of overcoming the worries and building confidence step by step. The Mental Health Foundation produces a booklet The Anxious Child .