Social anxiety disorder refers to an intense fear of social situations to an extent that it hinders the child’s daily routine. Children with social anxiety disorder fear judgment and scrutiny by others in a given social situation, so much so that the fear would begin to sound completely irrational. They struggle in a typical classroom setting, amongst their peers, and in unfamiliar situations.

Ever heard your child complaining about stomach aches and nausea that only seem to develop at school or at the mention of it? Some children get extremely anxious at the thought of going to school that they end up vomiting every morning. Other symptoms may include sweating, flushing, freezing, headaches, and avoidance of any unfamiliar situation. 

Social Anxiety Disorder and Physical Symptoms 

It can be difficult to connect the dots between the aforementioned physical symptoms and anxiety. The first response taken by parents would be to take them to the pediatricians’ office for a check-up if the child often complains about frequent stomach aches. While that is the right approach to rule out any physical health problem, many doctors might not get to the root of the issue when the ultrasound and the blood work results come out fine. 

Some parents might think that their child is putting up an act to bunk school. Many of them dismiss their child’s concerns thinking that they are just scared, and they would get over it. Most children with social anxiety disorder are in need of help and support from their parents and teachers. When things get serious, they would not be able to sit through their classes. 

It is necessary to look for a remedy. 

The first step is to identify the symptoms of social anxiety disorder. If you observe your child has the following symptoms, note them down: 

  • Frequent stomach aches. Especially before, or during school hours, or when interacting in unfamiliar environments. 
  • Headaches 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Freezing 
  • Extreme Shyness 
  • Clinginess 
  • Avoidance of social situations 
  • Angry outbursts 
  • Underachieving in school 
  • Fewer friendships 
  • Unable to handle assertive situations 

A Step Towards Healing 

Social anxiety disorder in children can be indicated through several physiological, cognitive and behavioral symptoms. While some of them might not be apparent, many of them are quite observable. If you suspect your child is suffering from social anxiety disorder, it is advisable to book an appointment with a counselor/psychologist. 

As a well-meaning parent, you would want your child to grow up to be an assertive, brave, and a confident individual. However, you cannot achieve that by asking them to ‘face their fears’ by going to the same classroom that seems to inhibit their abilities. Instead, get guidance from your counselor, and local community resources on how to handle the situation. 

Social anxiety disorder is completely treatable. More often than not, getting the right help, and building a new environment that works for them makes them stronger and resilient. 

An Alternative to Schooling 

Even if your child is unable to attend a regular school, they deserve a chance to achieve their full academic potential. This can be done by enrolling them in an online school that caters to their unique circumstances. Thankfully, we live in an era where schooling is accessible anywhere, and at any time! 

Online schooling is one of the best alternatives for children suffering from social anxiety disorder as the fear of physically being present in an unfamiliar environment gets reduced significantly. By joining  Al Huda Global School, an online Islamic school, children can access high quality education guided by Islam, without the stress of being in a physical school environment, 

Online Schooling for Children with Social Anxiety 

Children with social anxiety disorder tend to ruminate over what others would think about them. In an online school, this can be tackled by having one-on-one conversations with the teachers and students. It provides a perfect environment for gradually improving their social skills. Also, if your counselor suggests that your child should be attending a number of therapy sessions, an online school provides more flexibility for such treatments.

It is important to look at social anxiety disorder just as one would view any health issue. Mental health issues are not merely those that affect one psychologically. Social anxiety disorder and a number of other mental health issues show up as physical symptoms. It is crucial for the parents to be vigilant. If your child is suffering from social anxiety disorder, seek immediate help. 

Abu Darda reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “Verily, Allah sent down the disease and the cure, and for every disease he made a cure. Seek treatment, but do not seek treatment by the unlawful.” (Sunan Abī Dāwūd 3874)


Online schooling is not necessarily a cure for mental health issues. Rather it is one of the many steps a parent can take towards improving the daily life of their child suffering from it. If you are considering enrolling your child into an online school, get in touch with us. 

Apart from taking a huge step towards improving your child’s mental health, your child will be exposed to a whole other world at Al Huda Global School. He/she can meet students from all over the world and slowly get out of their comfort zone, at their pace.

Are you ready to start your journey with us? Contact us now.