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Anxiety Attacks in Children

An anxiety attack is a period of intense fear or worry accompanied by physical symptoms such as a racing heart, shaking, nausea, dizziness or fast breathing.

Stress, fear, social situations, separation, trauma and underlying anxiety disorders can trigger attacks. Physical illnesses and medicines can sometimes cause similar symptoms.

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AAP Guide to Anxiety Attacks in Children

The AAP guide below explains what to do during an attack and how to get help when anxiety keeps interfering with daily life.

AAP Symptom CheckerAnxiety attacks

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Anxiety attacks keep returning.
  • Your child avoids school, activities or sleep because of anxiety.
  • Symptoms interfere with normal daily life.
  • You are unsure whether the symptoms come from anxiety or another medical problem.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has severe breathing difficulty, prolonged loss of consciousness or another serious medical symptom.
  • Your child has suicidal thoughts or cannot be kept safe.
  • Your child has any life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on feelings and mental health

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