Anxiety is increasingly common in children due to a current mix of environmental, psychological and social factors, and can show itself in many different ways including: fear of separation, social and/or performance anxiety, panic attacks, or generalised worry. Unlike adults, children may not have the tools to process their emotions fully, making them more vulnerable to anxiety.
As parents, it can be heartbreaking to watch our children experience such anxiety. We want them to feel safe, confident, and happy, but when they struggle with worries, fears, or emotional overwhelm, it can leave us feeling helpless.
This is where homeopathy can be an extremely valuable resource, offering a gentle, natural way to help children manage without the negative side effects. It works by addressing the root cause rather than suppressing symptoms.
TOP HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES
ACONITE – Sudden Intense Fear or Panic
- Extreme fear and restlessness
- Anxiety comes on suddenly and intensely
- Fear of death, the dark, being alone
- Strong reactions to shock or trauma
- Wants comfort but cannot calm down
Indicated for: panic attacks, night terrors, and fear after a sudden fright
ARGENTUM NITRICUM – Performance Anxiety + Impulsiveness
- Anticipatory anxiety – fear before exams, performances, or social events
- Fast-talking, restless, impulsive personality
- Fears they might fail, be embarrassed, or lose control
- Digestive symptoms—loose stools, stomachaches from nerves
- Craves sweets, which worsen anxiety
Indicated for: children who are excitable, nervous and easily overwhelmed
GELSEMIUM – Anticipatory Anxiety
- Anticipatory anxiety – tests and exams, public performances, or social situations
- Wants to avoid attention, prefers to stay in the background
- May have a heavy or weak feeling – tired or physically drained when anxious
- Trembling and nervousness – hands may shake, voice may quiver
- Better with reassurance and rest
Indicated for: children get overwhelmed, freeze up, or feel exhausted by their anxiety
IGNATIA MARA – Grief, Disappointment or Emotional Sensitivity
- Anxiety when the emotional cause is tied to grief, disappointment, or emotional sensitivity
- Sudden mood changes: laughter to tears, then back again – can be hysterical
- Deep sighing, holding in emotions, or refusing to talk about
- May ‘feel’ like they have a ‘lump in the throat’ – often from suppressed emotions
- May have nausea and/or loss of appetite
Indicated for: children who are experiencing anxiety along with emotional upset or loss
LYCOPODIUM CLAVATUM – Fear of Failure + Confidence Issues
- Fear of failure & new situations
- Confidence issues – acts bossy and controlling to compensate for insecurities
- Separation anxiety – prefers familiar people and places, dislikes being alone
- Bloating, gas, or stomach pain when anxious
- Better with reassurance & gradual exposure to fears
Indicated for: children who struggle with self-doubt and fear of failure
WORKING WITH A HOMEOPATH
- Ensures you receive a individualised remedy that matches your child’s presenting symptoms. Guides you in choosing the right potency/dosage. Offers you on-going support.
- Monitors progress, adjusting remedies and or potency/dosage if needed. For complex or chronic conditions, their expertise helps uncover potentially more deep-rooted causes
- Personally, where appropriate and/or needed I offer nutrition, supplementation and lifestyle recommendations to compliment the homeopathic approach.
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
- Fast-paced, high-pressure world – Academic pressure, social comparisons, and high expectations can overwhelm kids.
- Excessive screen time – Overstimulation, social media comparisons, and reduced real-life play can affect emotional regulation.
- Parental stress & emotional climate – Children may absorb the stress of their caregivers, even if not directly involved.
SUPPORTING THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
- Teaching fun and simple breathing exercises can help your child to feel calm, safe, and more in control of their emotions.
- Magnesium-rich foods are excellent for calming nerves. Consider adding almonds, banana and spinach into their daily routine.
- A consistent sleep schedule supports nervous system repair.