On starting school, some children have difficulty adjusting to being more independent. Anxiety and worry are particularly common, along with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Children may also struggle to adapt to the different requirements of school, including behaviour and friendship skills. This can cause them and their families considerable distress..

A clinical psychologist can work with the child, parents and school to ensure that particular issues are identified, and a plan of treatment is drawn together. They may offer particular strategies to children, parents and teachers. If your child is suffering from worry or anxiety, a clinical psychologist will usually use a cognitive-behavioural approach, teaching both children and families about how anxiety affects the body, and how to manage anxiety better. This may include relaxation skills. In older children, they may be helped to challenge their anxious thoughts and reduce their impact.

Read Freya’s story or click here to discuss your concerns.