Anxiety in Children - Causes and Treatment Forms

Research has shown that those who face high stress levels are more prone to return to a similar state of high stress at the smallest provocation. Child anxiety disorder is one of the more common problems that children face, and might be accompanied by depression. Even through children are prone to anxiety disorders, recent research suggests that there is a lack of treatment, leading to chronic anxiety disorders when they grow up. There is a wide range of treatments available for treating anxiety disorder, ranging from the pharmacologic to the psychotherapeutic.

Anxiety disorders result in the child experience fear and worry, disrupting their normal lives. These disorders can persist even after the child has grown up, hence it is important for parents to identify the symptoms to ensure that the child receives necessary help. Empirically, those who have received therapy or treatment are more likely to completely recover, or suffer from lesser anxiety attacks.

Children are most likely to suffer from panic anxiety disorder and post traumatic stress disorder, but other types include generalized anxiety disorder and acute stress disorder as well. Common triggers are events such as moving house, or schools, or the divorce of the parents, causing worry and apprehension. If left untreated, the child will suffer from low self confidence, and is likely to be socially inept as well as having little interest in school work.

As parents, it is hence critical that you are able to identify symptoms of anxiety disorders. Anxiety is a common emotion experienced by children, and it can be difficult to distinguish between a normal level of anxiety and one that is abnormal. If not adequately identified and treated, the child’s thinking and reasoning ability, as well as learning inclinations can be severely impacted.

Symptoms can be physical and psychological, ranging from headaches, nausea and chest pains to excessive fear and uncertainty. Exhibitions of such emotions are likely to change as the child grows. In time, unhealthy levels of anxiety can develop into more serious health conditions. Should you notice any of the above symptoms, it is better to err on the side of caution and see a doctor so that the child can receive the necessary treatment.

There are many causes of anxiety, and this is what makes it such a difficult problem to diagnose. Although it can be difficult to determine if your child is suffering from anxiety attacks, it is advisable to support them to the best of your abilities and avoid getting irritated or short tempered in their presence. Whilst uncommon, your child may also be suffering from anxiety problems due to genetic reasons.

Common triggers of anxiety include being afraid of the dark, or a fear of being left alone. These are actually reflections of events that have occurred, such as being left in the dark at night, or waiting last in school for a parent to pick them up.

Anxiety disorders are treatable, and there are many professionals who deal with children, and treating anxiety. These range from behavioral and cognitive therapy to medication, and other alternative treatments.