Anxiety is a normal and often healthy emotion. However, when anxiety becomes excessive or persistent, it can interfere with a child's daily life. Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health problems among children and adolescents, affecting an estimated 1 in 8 children in the United States. There are many different types of anxiety disorders, but the most common ones in children and adolescents include: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): Children with GAD experience excessive and persistent worry about a variety of things, such as school, their health, or safety. Social anxiety disorder (social phobia) : Children with social anxiety disorder experience extreme fear or anxiety in social situations, such as talking to new people or performing in front of an audience. Separation anxiety disorder : Children with separation anxiety disorder experience extreme anxiety when separated from a parent or other caregiver. Panic disorder : Children with panic disorder have recurre