Anxiety disorders are the most common psychiatric conditions in children and adolescents, affecting nearly 1 in 12 children and 1 in 4 adolescents. Anxiety disorders include specific phobias, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, panic disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders can interfere with the child’s life at home, school, or play activities.
How can you tell if your child has an anxiety disorder? Here are five signs to look out for:
1. Excessive worry or fear about a variety of things, such as school performance, health, family, or the future. The worry or fear is hard to control and lasts for more than six months.
2. Avoidance of situations or places that trigger anxiety, such as social gatherings, public speaking, or being away from home or family. The avoidance causes significant distress or impairment in the child’s functioning.
3. Physical symptoms of anxiety, such as stomachaches, headaches, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, or sleep problems. The symptoms are not explained by another medical condition or substance use.
4. Emotional outbursts, such as crying or tantrums, when faced with anxiety-provoking situations or when separated from parents or caregivers.
5. Irritability or restlessness that affects the child’s mood, behaviour, or relationships.
If you notice any of these signs in your child, you should talk to your child’s healthcare provider. Anxiety disorders can be treated with cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), medication, or a combination of both. CBT is a type of psychotherapy that helps the child learn to cope with anxiety and challenge negative thoughts. Medication can help reduce the severity of anxiety symptoms and improve the child’s functioning.
Anxiety disorders are common and treatable. Early intervention and treatment can help your child live a more fulfilling life. The key here is early intervention and that means getting your child assessed early.