Find a Provider

Meltdowns, tantrums, defiance, or aggressive behavior can mask underlying feelings of anxiety. Typically when we see a child being defiant at home or school, our first thought might be, “that child is angry” and “they don’t like to follow rules.” Or we might say “that child is disrespectful.” But, underneath that anger or tantrum, are often feelings of overwhelming anxiety or worry.

If a mother's anxiety goes untreated throughout her entire pregnancy, she is likely releasing high amounts of cortisol. Also known as the stress hormone. In turn, this affects her baby. Potential complications include prematurity and low birth weight.