Understanding Anxiety in Girls

Anxiety in young girls is becoming increasingly common, particularly between the ages of 8-12. At Cooroy Therapy, we provide counselling and psychology support for girls navigating the challenges of pre-puberty, peer relationships, and academic pressures.

Why Are Girls in Pre-Puberty More Prone to Anxiety?

Pre-puberty (typically between 8 and 12 years old) is a time of rapid development, both physically and emotionally. Girls begin to experience hormonal shifts, which can affect mood, self-esteem, and emotional regulation. At the same time, their social world expands, and they start comparing themselves to peers, striving to fit in, and feeling the pressure to meet high expectations.

Common triggers for anxiety in this age group include:

✅ Changing friendships – As social circles shift, some girls may feel excluded, leading to self-doubt and worry.
✅ Peer pressure – The need to conform to group norms can cause stress, especially if a child feels they must change their behavior to be accepted.
✅ High expectations – Whether from school, sports, or family, the pressure to succeed can be overwhelming.
✅ Social media influence – Although many 8-12-year-olds don’t yet have full access to social media, they may still be affected by online trends and expectations from older peers.

Signs of Anxiety in Girls Aged 8-12

Not all children express anxiety the same way, but common signs include:

🔹 Excessive worrying about school, friendships, or family issues
🔹 Avoiding social situations or withdrawing from activities they used to enjoy
🔹 Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
🔹 Physical symptoms like stomachaches, headaches, or nausea
🔹 Seeking excessive reassurance from parents or teachers
🔹 Perfectionism and fear of making mistakes

How Can Parents Support an Anxious Child?

If your daughter is struggling with anxiety, here are some ways to provide support:

💙 Validate her feelings – Let her know that it’s okay to feel worried and that her emotions are valid.
💙 Encourage open communication – Create a safe space where she can talk about her fears without judgment.
💙 Teach coping strategies – Simple techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and grounding exercises can help regulate anxious thoughts.
💙 Reduce pressure – Encourage effort rather than perfection and set realistic expectations.
💙 Seek professional support – If anxiety is impacting daily life, counselling and psychology support for girls can help them develop resilience and emotional well-being.

Cooroy Therapy: Counselling & Support for Girls

At Cooroy Therapy, we offer counselling support for girls who are experiencing anxiety. Our compassionate, evidence-based approach helps children understand and manage their emotions in a safe and supportive environment.

If your child is struggling with anxiety, early intervention can make a world of difference. Contact Cooroy Therapy today to book an appointment or learn more about our tween workshops.

📍 Cooroy Therapy – Supporting young minds, building resilience.

📞 Call us at 0422 506 824
📩 Email us at nicole@cooroytherapy.com.au
🌐 Visit our website at www.cooroytherapy.com.au