Common Questions About Childhood Anxiety

How do I know if my child is struggling with an anxiety disorder?

All children experience short-lived fears or anxiety at times, but young people with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) experience extreme, unrealistic worry that interferes with their daily lives. Typical signs of this disorder are excessive worrying about ordinary activities, such as attending school, forming friendships, separating from parents, or taking tests. Children with GAD are overly tense, self-conscious and may require a lot of reassurance. They may complain of frequent stomachaches and headaches, and experience sweating, trembling, and palpitations.

What are the different types of anxiety disorders?

In addition to Generalized Anxiety Disorder, other types of anxiety disorders for children include:

• Phobias
• Panic Disorder
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Visit www.mentalhealth.org for more information about these disorders.

Where can I find help and what is the treatment for childhood anxiety?

Start with your pediatrician. The doctor can determine whether the symptoms are caused by an anxiety disorder, or some other condition. Then, if needed, your doctor can refer you to a child psychiatrist or licensed social worker or psychologist who will complete a careful evaluation and examination of the child in order to reach a diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is made, treatments may include a combination of individual therapy, family therapy, behavior treatments, medication, and consultation with the school. A comprehensive treatment plan should be developed with the family, and whenever possible, the child should be involved in making treatment decisions.

What can I do at home to help my child?

Try to remain calm and understanding when interacting with your child. If parents become anxious, angry or consistently let frustrations show, it won't help. Work with treatment providers in following through with behavior plans at home.

Should I involve the school in my child's treatment?

Since school is such a big part of children's lives, difficulties like this often manifest themselves in the school setting. If anxiety is affecting school performance, it is important to inform key officials of the treatment process and incorporate treatment recommendations into the school setting. It may be helpful for child, parents, teachers and therapists to meet.