What is an anxiety disorder?
An anxiety disorder is a condition that causes persistent, unnecessary worry or fear, even when the situation doesn’t call for it. This constant worry can interfere with your child’s daily routine, disrupting sleep, and changing their behaviors.
For children with generalized anxiety disorder, they typically worry daily about a variety of things, including school, friends, family, safely, or illness. These feelings may leave them chronically tired and afraid.
There are other types of anxiety disorders common among children, including:
- Separation anxiety: fear of being away from parents or other loved ones
- Social anxiety: worry or fear triggered by social situations
- Selective mutism: a form of anxiety where children don’t talk due to worry or fear
For some kids, excessive fears of a specific person, place, or thing is also a form of anxiety, commonly known as a phobia.
What are common signs of anxiety?
While it’s normal for children to feel some anxiety from time to time, an anxiety disorder may leave them feeling overwhelmed by fear or worry. Their body remains in a fight-or-flight state that can result in physical symptoms like:
- Dry mouth
- Shakiness
- Racing heart
- Upset stomach
- Shortness of breath
Children with anxiety may often cry or seem visibly afraid, even when there’s no real danger.
What causes anxiety?
There are a number of factors that may trigger an anxiety disorder. For some children, a family history may put them at increased risk for developing the condition at some point.
Other factors that may result in an anxiety diagnosis include:
- Stress
- Trauma
- Chemical imbalance
Some children may develop anxiety through learned behaviors, learning to be fearful of situations or things from others who are anxious.
What treatments are available for anxiety?
Dr. Elmashat and Dr. Elatrozy carefully evaluate your child to better understand what triggers their anxiety. They review both the medical and family history of your child to ensure an underlying health issue isn’t a factor.
Many children can learn to cope with their fears and anxieties through cognitive behavioral therapy. Dr. Elmashat and Dr. Elatrozy work closely with your child to address issues that trigger anxiety and provide resources to help ease the worries and face fears head-on.
If you’re concerned that your child worries too much, schedule an evaluation for anxiety online or by calling the office today.
