Over the course of the pandemic, many children have been feeling worried and anxious. Mental health services have seen a significant increase in anxiety, depression and the use of unhelpful coping strategies – for instance, using food, self-harm, tantrums and avoidance of worrying situations – to manage tricky feelings. We spoke to clinical psychologist Doctor Anna Colton. She explains the causes of anxiety and offers some techniques to stop anxious thoughts, as well as tips on how to help your child manage their anxiety.