Anxiety

Hi there. My name is Anxiety. I am the feeling you get when you are worried or nervous about something new. I can feel like little butterflies or 'worry wiggles' in your tummy. Sometimes I make your heart beat fast, thump-thump-thump, like a little drum.

I might visit on your first day of school when you do not know anyone. I can make you want to hide behind a grown-up's legs. But then, you might see colorful blocks to play with or a friendly smile. That is when I start to get smaller.

When I show up, you can help me feel calm. Try taking a big, slow breath, like you are blowing out birthday candles. Whoosh. Doing this helps the worry wiggles go away. It helps you feel brave enough to go play and have fun. Learning to take a big breath helps you remember you are brave.