May is Mental Health Awareness Month – a time to shine a light on the importance of emotional well-being for all of us, especially our children. For parents of children with ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), or other behavioral challenges, it’s critical to understand the strong connection between mental health and behavior. One key area often overlooked? Anxiety.
Why Anxiety Often Goes Unrecognized in Children with Behavioral Issues
Children who struggle with behavior are often labeled as “defiant,” “disrespectful,” or “out of control.” But what if, beneath those explosive outbursts or refusal to follow rules, lies a deep sense of anxiety?
Anxiety doesn’t always look like fear or worry. In children with ADHD, ODD, or similar conditions, it can show up as:
- Anger or irritability
- Physical complaints like stomachaches or headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Avoidance of certain places or tasks
- Tantrums or aggressive behavior when overwhelmed
These signs can easily be misunderstood as “bad behavior,” but they may actually be your child’s way of coping with inner distress.
The Link Between Anxiety and Behavior
Research shows that children with behavior disorders often experience co-occurring anxiety or mood disorders. According to the CDC, around 7% of children aged 3 – 17 have diagnosed anxiety, but in kids with behavioral disorders, that number is likely much higher.
When anxiety goes untreated, it can fuel behavioral issues, leading to more conflict at home, school, and in social situations. It becomes a cycle: behavior problems worsen anxiety, and anxiety worsens behavior.
That’s why it’s so important to recognize anxiety as part of your child’s mental health picture – not just a “bonus problem” on top of behavior.
What Parents Can Look For
If you’re parenting a child with behavioral challenges, be on the lookout for:
- Excessive worry or fear, even if it’s not expressed verbally
- Avoiding situations (like school, group activities, or bedtime)
- Restlessness or trouble sleeping
- Seeking constant reassurance – or seeming unusually “needy”
- Physical tension, such as clenched jaws, nail biting, or fidgeting
Trust your instincts. You know your child better than anyone.
How to Help Your Child: Managing Behavior Through Mental Health Support
At PMTI, we believe in treating the whole child. That means addressing both behavior and underlying mental health concerns like anxiety.
Here are a few steps to get started:
1. Seek a Mental Health Evaluation
If you suspect anxiety, start with a licensed mental health provider who understands childhood behavioral disorders. An accurate diagnosis helps guide the right support.
Use this tool from Mental Health America to explore whether your child might benefit from a professional evaluation.
2. Use Parent Management Training (PMT) Techniques
At PMTI, we train caregivers and professionals in evidence-based Parent Management Training (PMT).
The Parent Management Training Institute (PMTI) specializes in the Kazdin Method®, an evidence-based approach using positive reinforcement to help parents manage challenging child behaviors and create lasting, positive changes. Developed at Yale University, this proven method boasts a 92% success rate in reducing aggression, defiance, and oppositional behavior. It’s not about punishment – it’s about building new, positive habits and interactions that transform daily life for families.
👉Learn more about PMTI’s programs for parents.
3. Collaborate with Teachers and School Counselors
Children often express anxiety through school-related behaviors. Keep an open dialogue with your child’s school. A 504 Plan or IEP may be appropriate to provide additional emotional and behavioral support.
4. Validate Your Child’s Emotions
Let your child know that it’s okay to feel scared, nervous, or unsure. Practice phrases like:
- “I see you’re feeling overwhelmed. I’m here to help.”
- “You’re not in trouble. Let’s figure this out together.”
These small moments of connection can go a long way in easing anxiety and building trust.
You’re Not Alone
Mental Health Awareness Month is a powerful reminder that mental health matters – at every age. If your child struggles with behavior and anxiety, you are not alone, and help is available.
At PMTI, we are here to walk this journey with you. We offer practical, compassionate training and support that empowers families to better understand and manage behavior – while nurturing your child’s mental health.
👉 Contact us today to learn more about our parent training programs and professional workshops.
Let’s break the stigma. Let’s recognize anxiety. Let’s build a foundation for healthier behavior – together.