Anticipatory Anxiety vs. General Anxiety: Key Differences Parents Should Know

By Yana Shenker, LCSW-R
Founder, Resilient Mind Psychotherapy

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Anxiety is one of the most common mental health concerns for both adults and children. Yet not all anxiety looks the same. Some people experience constant worry that lingers day to day, while others only feel anxious before specific events. Understanding the difference between anticipatory anxiety and general anxiety can help parents recognize when their child needs extra support — especially around stressful times like going back to school.

At Resilient Mind Psychotherapy in Brooklyn, we often see parents wondering whether their child’s nerves are “just normal” or a sign of something more. Let’s break down these two types of anxiety, their key differences, and what parents can do to help.

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What Is Anticipatory Anxiety?

Anticipatory anxiety refers to the fear or worry about future events — often days or even weeks in advance. It’s the stress a child feels before the first day of school, a class presentation, or even a doctor’s appointment.

Signs of anticipatory anxiety in children may include:

• Sleepless nights leading up to an event

• Headaches or stomachaches before school

• Repetitive “What if…?” questions (e.g., “What if no one talks to me?”)

• Emotional meltdowns the night before or morning of a big change

This kind of anxiety spikes around specific situations and usually eases once the event begins or passes. For example, a child may worry endlessly before school starts but feel fine once they’re in the classroom.

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What Is General Anxiety?

General anxiety, often linked to Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), is more persistent and ongoing. Instead of being tied to one event, children with general anxiety worry about many aspects of daily life — school, friends, family, health, and even world events.

Signs of general anxiety in children may include:

• Chronic tension or irritability

• Difficulty concentrating at school

• Frequent physical complaints with no clear medical cause

• Constant reassurance-seeking (“Are you sure I did it right?”)

• Trouble relaxing, even during fun activities

Unlike anticipatory anxiety, which has a clear “trigger,” general anxiety tends to be broad and long-lasting.

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Key Differences Parents Should Know

While both types of anxiety can affect children’s well-being, there are important distinctions:

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Why It Matters: Back-to-School as a Case Study

Back-to-school season is one of the most common times parents notice anxiety in their children. For some, the stress is clearly anticipatory: the sleepless night before the first day, the tears in the morning, then calm once they’re in class. For others, the worry continues daily — about friendships, grades, or even small details like lunch routines.

Recognizing whether your child’s worry is anticipatory or general can help you decide what level of support they need. Short-term jitters may fade with reassurance and routine. But ongoing anxiety may signal it’s time to seek professional help.

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Therapist-Approved Strategies for Parents

Whether it’s anticipatory or general anxiety, children benefit from consistent coping tools. Here are strategies we use at Resilient Mind Psychotherapy:

1. Validate Their Feelings – Instead of saying “Don’t worry,” acknowledge their concern: “I see this is really hard for you. Let’s find a way to handle it together.”

2. Practice Coping Skills Early – Teach belly breathing, worry journals, or grounding exercises so kids can use them in the moment.

3. Create Predictable Routines – Consistent bedtimes, morning schedules, and homework plans reduce uncertainty.

4. Gradual Exposure – For anticipatory anxiety, practice small steps toward the event (e.g., driving past the school before the first day).

5. Model Calm Confidence – Children mirror your emotions; managing your own stress helps them regulate theirs.

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When to Seek Professional Support

Occasional worry is normal. But if your child’s anxiety:

• Lasts for weeks without relief

• Leads to school refusal or avoidance

• Interferes with sleep, appetite, or friendships

• Causes repeated physical complaints

…it may be time to consult a therapist.

At Resilient Mind Psychotherapy in Brooklyn, we specialize in child therapy using evidence-based methods like CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), play therapy, and parent coaching. We work with both children and families to build coping skills, address anxious thoughts, and create supportive routines at home and school.

We also offer online therapy sessions for families who need flexibility — because support should be accessible no matter your schedule.

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Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between anticipatory anxiety and general anxiety helps parents respond more effectively to their child’s needs. Both are real, valid experiences, but they require different approaches. With the right support, children can learn to manage worry, face challenges with resilience, and build confidence that carries into adulthood.

If your child is struggling with anxiety, remember you’re not alone — and help is available. Learn more about our approach at Resilient Mind Psychotherapy and discover how we can support your family in Brooklyn or online.

References

American Psychological Association. (2025, June). Anticipatory anxiety: When worry takes over before it even starts. Monitor on Psychology. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2025/06/anticipatory-anxiety

Harvard Health Publishing. (2018, August 23). Back-to-school anxiety. Harvard Medical School. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/back-to-school-anxiety-2018082314617

Child Mind Institute. (n.d.). Back-to-school anxiety. https://childmind.org/article/back-school-anxiety/

Anxiety & Depression Association of America. (n.d.). 7 tips for addressing back-to-school anxiety. https://adaa.org/learn-from-us/from-the-experts/blog-posts/consumer/7-tips-addressing-back-school-anxiety