Would it help to talk with her about her fears? Ask her to describe what she imagines and then reassure her that often this serves a purpose of building resilience by giving an opportunity to imagine a solution without encountering the actual threat? Then talk to her about safeguards that we have as a society and personal safeguards at home. Relay the idea that she is not a helpless victim and that extreme events are very rare. I would then try to build so self confidence skills. Just plain old physical exercise can go a long way towards making her feel more confident and help her sleep better.

Cognitive behavior therapy by a clinical psychologist.

My child with anxiety does CBT, which has been very helpful, but if you don;t want to go that route, I'd try this book:

http://www.amazon.com/Worrier-Warrior-Guide-Conquering-Fears/dp/1935067249/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1440876404&sr=1-1&keywords=worry+monster

^^could

Is she getting enough nourishment? She's likely entering puberty and will need more calories, especially protein and fats. The angry outbursts cod be because she's very hungry.

Yes, definitely seek some counseling. She can get some tools to help her manage her anxiety. Its a life skill we could all benefit from. Where do you live. If you are in Montgomery County, try Alvord Baker: http://www.alvordbaker.com/

Mediation is a great tool. Maybe sign-up for a mindfulness/meditation class together while you are researching therapists. I took my son when he was 8 btw. It was super helpful and short term. Please don't have any qualms about going. I told my son, I just didn't know how best to help him with a certain problem he was having so we were going to see an expert. He was thrilled since he completely agreed that my advice was falling short.

+1 CBT

Also, a child psychologist can teach you some helpful techniques to help moderate your daughter's anxiety.

Also teach her mindfulness - meditation - since it's a great lifelong skill for her to have as backup.

I would see a psychotherapist who works with kids. CBT or play therapy can help.

I would investigate if she is being bullied by someone or having issues at school. That is a good age for mean girlism to start rearing its head.

Also make sure she isn't being abused (sorry to bring it up, but it is a good thing to check when children start to behave contrary to usual)

Finally work on building her self esteem and empower her, give her the tools she needs to feel confident.

Counseling is always there if you need it, but I would rule all these other things out first.

My 10yo has been exhibiting some anxiety behaviors. They seem to crop up at night. Almost every night, she has to sleep with us. I cannot leave her in her room alone or she has a bona fide meltdown and starts crying and shaking. She says repeatedly that she is worried that she is going to die, I am going to die, or DH is going to die. Then she asks me a bunch of questions along the lines of "What if someone breaks in here with a gun?" and "Is the door locked?"

We don't watch the news, so I know it is not exposure to that.

The only other time she acts this way is on some mornings. Maybe once a week, she has a complete meltdown over what to wear. She has a very basic, sporty style, so most of her clothes look the same. But on some days, she says her T-shirt and track pants "look stupid" and she tears them off her body. Of course, they are the same clothes she wears every other day, so I am never sure exactly what she means. She resits any and all attempts to shop (in person or online). I've tried to buy her new and different things, but she doesn't want them.

I am not that impressed by my pediatrician's response whenever I bring these topics up. What should my next step be? A social worker or counselor who sees kids? Any books to recommend? Thanks.