Children do not always express stress or emotional struggles the way adults do. Instead of openly talking about anxiety or sadness, their feelings often show up through behaviour, habits, or sudden changes in mood.
Experts say many parents overlook these subtle signs because they appear as normal childhood habits.
Small behaviours such as nail-biting, lip chewing, or hair pulling may look harmless, but sometimes they can indicate deeper emotional stress.
If such habits become frequent or intense, they may signal that a child is struggling to cope with anxiety, pressure, or emotional difficulties.
Doctors say paying attention to these early warning signs can help parents intervene before the situation becomes serious.
WHEN NERVOUS HABITS BECOME A SIGNAL
According to Dr Krithishree Somanna, Consultant Physiatrist at KMC Hospital, Mangalore, habits like nail-biting, lip chewing, and hair pulling are commonly seen in growing children.
“These behaviours are not always linked only to anxiety. They can also develop unconscious self-soothing habits during boredom or stressful situations such as exams or presentations,” she explains.
Such behaviours are classified as Body Focused Repetitive Behaviours (BFRBs). They often help children temporarily cope with uncomfortable emotions.
In mild cases, these habits may not cause any harm. However, if they become frequent or severe, they can lead to physical problems. For example, nail-biting can damage the skin and cause bleeding, hair-pulling can result in patchy hair loss, and lip chewing may lead to painful sores or infections.
In rare situations, children who pull hair may even swallow it, which can cause digestive complications.
POSSIBLE PSYCHOLOGICAL LINKS
Experts warn that severe or persistent BFRBs may sometimes be linked to underlying psychological conditions.
Dr Somanna says these behaviours may appear along with disorders such as anxiety, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), autism spectrum disorder, psychosis, or intellectual disability.
However, not every child with such habits has a mental health disorder. Many factors together can contribute to these behaviours.
WHY THESE HABITS DEVELOP
Doctors say nervous habits in children often arise from a mix of genetic, neurological, psychological, and social influences.
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Genetic factors: Some children may inherit a tendency toward such behaviours, especially if similar habits are present in other family members.
Neurological factors: Research suggests that brain pathways related to impulse control, habit formation, and sensory processing may play a role. Changes in certain brain chemicals involved in these pathways may also contribute.
Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, boredom, and emotional tension can trigger these habits. In many cases, the behaviour gives temporary relief from discomfort, which reinforces the cycle.
Social factors: Family conflicts, academic pressure, financial stress at home, chronic illness, or relationship issues can also increase emotional stress in children.
DEPRESSION IN CHILDREN LOOKS DIFFERENT
Mental health experts say depression in children often looks very different from depression in adults. Instead of appearing sad or withdrawn, children may show irritability, anger, or frequent emotional outbursts.
Parents may notice temper tantrums, demanding behaviour, dissatisfaction, or sudden mood swings. Some children may withdraw socially, refuse to go to school, or spend excessive time on screens, gaming, or the internet.
In more severe cases, children may start having troubling thoughts about death or hopelessness.
WARNING SIGNS THAT NEED IMMEDIATE ATTENTION
Experts stress that parents should be alert if they notice major behavioural changes compared to a child’s usual personality.
Some warning signs that require urgent attention include:
Talking frequently about death or dying
Expressing feelings of hopelessness or saying they feel like a burden
Posting quotes or messages about emotional pain or tragic endings
Searching online for suicide methods
Collecting medicines or objects that could be used for self-harm
Giving away favourite belongings or saying goodbye to loved ones
Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed
Engaging in risky behaviour such as substance use or unsafe relationships
Such signals should never be ignored, and professional help should be sought immediately.
HOW PARENTS CAN SUPPORT CHILDREN
Experts say parents play a crucial role in helping children manage stress and develop healthy coping skills.
Creating a calm and supportive environment at home can make a big difference. Maintaining a structured routine can also reduce uncertainty and anxiety for children.
Open communication is equally important. Parents should encourage children to talk about their feelings without fear of judgement. Validating their emotions helps build trust and emotional safety.
Positive reinforcement for small achievements can boost a child’s confidence and reduce feelings of inadequacy.
Doctors also recommend practising relaxation techniques together as a family. Activities like breathing exercises, yoga, or simple mindfulness practices can help children manage stress.
Healthy lifestyle habits are equally important. Children should have balanced meals, drink enough water, limit screen time, stay physically active, and maintain regular sleep schedules.
Finally, parents should remember that children often imitate adult behaviour. Demonstrating calm responses during stressful situations can teach kids healthier ways to cope with challenges.
Experts say early awareness and supportive parenting can make a significant difference in protecting children’s emotional well-being.
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Published By:
Smarica Pant
Published On:
Mar 17, 2026 10:00 IST
