As- salamu alaykum, shokran for writing to our live session. While you did not say how old the child was or if there had been any trauma in his/her life, or what the symptoms are, I would kindly suggest that if the symptoms are interfering with the child’s ability to function at school, home or social settings, that you speak with your child’s pediatrician about getting a psychological consult.

For a child who is mildly anxious, I would suggest insha’Allah that you encourage your child to talk about what she/he is feeling; reinforce the positive qualities and abilities your child has, as well as teach your child coping techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, encourage dhzikr during stressful moments as well as Qur’an recitation.I would also kindly suggest that you do’t push your child to do things that cause anxiety, such as demand the child play in a group or ride a bike if it causes anxiety. I would suggest however, offering positive reinforcements for gradual expose to the things which cause your child anxiety.

For instance, if riding a bike causes anxious reactions, you might tell your child that if he/she rides the bike for 3 minutes, you will go out for ice cream. This is not only a goal the child can strive for, but it is a very short time he/she will have to experience discomfort. In time, you can build upon the minutes (and switching up the rewards) until insha’Allah the anxiety vanishes with exposure and time. This gradual exposure method can be used successfully with most fears or anxieties. Continue to build up your child’s self esteem and confidence as well as coping skills. You may want to take a class on Anxiety to help you learn more about it as well.

In general anxious children need a safe, loving, and in some cases, a quiet home environment. Often times lots of noise, stress and upsets will trigger the anxiety. I would kindly suggest evaluating your child’s home and school environment for stressful factors. Often times young children will outgrow anxiety, but if your child does not, or if it worsens please consult a child therapist. You and you child are in our prayers.