Understanding Anxiety in Children with Dyslexia: Signs, Strategies, and Support
It’s common for neurodiverse children to experience anxiety. How do we know if a child has anxiety because of their dyslexia or if they are generally anxious? Right to Read Advocacy’s founder Jennifer Bernheim was recently joined by Dr. Gillian Donovan on Instagram LIVE to discuss tips for supporting children experiencing anxiety.
Although anxiety is a common experience for many children, for those with dyslexia, it can be particularly challenging to navigate. In our recent discussion, we delved into the correlation between dyslexia and anxiety, shedding light on how parents can identify signs of anxiety and support their children effectively.
Recognizing Signs of Anxiety
Identifying anxiety in children can be complex, as it manifests differently for each individual. Some children may express their anxiety verbally, voicing concerns or fears, while others may exhibit behavioral or physiological symptoms such as stomach aches, headaches, or rapid heartbeat.
It’s important, as parents, to pay attention to changes in our child's behavior and functioning, particularly if they seem withdrawn, irritable, or avoidant of certain tasks or situations.
Teasing Apart Dyslexia and Anxiety
Distinguishing between anxiety related to dyslexia and general anxiety can be challenging but essential for providing targeted support.
In many cases, anxiety related to dyslexia may manifest as avoidant behaviors, particularly concerning tasks associated with reading or schoolwork. Children may:
express reluctance or refusal to engage in reading-related activities,
experience heightened stress or discomfort during reading sessions, or
exhibit physical symptoms such as stomach aches or nervousness.
Strategies for Support
When addressing anxiety in children with dyslexia, it's essential to take a collaborative approach.
Initiate open conversations with children, inviting them to share their thoughts and feelings about their challenges with reading or schoolwork.
Encourage children to express their needs and concerns by fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
Work with your child's school to develop a tailored support plan that addresses their specific needs. This may involve collaborating with teachers, counselors, or other school personnel to implement accommodations or interventions that alleviate stress and promote academic success.
Is it Time to Seek Professional Help?
If anxiety significantly impacts a child's functioning or well-being, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Parents should monitor their child's symptoms closely and reach out to their pediatrician or mental health provider if they notice persistent or severe signs of anxiety.
School-based resources, such as counselors or psychologists, can also provide valuable support and guidance.
Anxiety can pose significant challenges for children with dyslexia, but with proactive intervention and support, parents can help their children navigate these difficulties effectively. By fostering open communication, collaborating with schools, and seeking professional help when needed, parents can empower their children to manage their anxiety and thrive academically and emotionally.
Watch our recent Instagram LIVE to learn more from Dr. Gillian Donovan about dyslexia and anxiety, including three things parents can do when their child is diagnosed with dyslexia.
Meet Dr. Gillian Donovan:
Gillian Donovan, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist licensed in Connecticut and New York. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from Georgetown University and her Master's and Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University.
She completed her predoctoral internship at James J. Peters VA Medical Center in Bronx, NY, and her postdoctoral training in child and adolescent psychotherapy at a group private practice in Tarrytown, NY led by Joanna Ball, Ph.D. After completing her postdoctoral training she continued to work in Dr. Ball’s practice where she conducted therapy with children, teens, and adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, sleep, and behavioral problems, among others.
Dr. Donovan specializes in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adolescents and adults and has had extensive training in several evidence-based treatments. She also treats trauma-related disorders such as PTSD. She offers parent consultations for families managing challenging mental health and behavioral difficulties. Dr. Donovan works within a multi-theoretical framework to offer the most effective treatments for her patients, with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She works closely with parents, teachers, and outside providers such as pediatricians and psychiatrists to ensure that her patient’s treatment is family-centered and community-based.
Dr. Donovan is a member of the American Psychological Association and the Connecticut Psychological Association.
Connect with Dr. Gillian Donovan, here.