Childhood Anxiety Disorders: How to Recognize the Signs

All children experience anxiety at some point or other. It’s often due to a specific event that quickly resolves itself. But if anxiety in a child recurs often and lasts for long periods of time, it can become an anxiety disorder, the most common type of psychiatric problem in children, and one that can interfere with academic, social, and family dynamics.

At the office of Valhalla Wellness and Medical Centers, we understand just how debilitating anxiety can be. Our compassionate and skilled staff is committed to your child’s emotional welfare and will work to ease his or her fears and calm disturbing thoughts.

Anxiety is a form of stress that can manifest in different ways — physically, emotionally, or cognitively. Most children experience anxiety in the face of real threats. But when it results from perceived threats, and produces behaviors that are inappropriate or dysfunctional, it may be a sign of a disorder.

There are many different types of anxiety disorders, each with different symptoms. What they have in common, however, is periods of prolonged, excess worry that is out of proportion to the triggering situation.

Signs for parents to look for

1. Avoidance of and escape from situations where there is no real risk
2. Social withdrawal or isolation
3. Learning or attention problems
4. Mood swings and emotional outbursts
5. Behavioral problems (excessive anger, bedwetting or eating disorders)

The most effective treatment for anxiety disorders is a combination of medication and therapy. The goal is to unlearn avoidant behavior and, along with help from the parents, to give children the tools they need to effectively manage the anxiety on their own.

Your trusted partner in care

At the office of Valhalla Wellness and Medical Centers, your child’s well-being is our top priority. We have a proven track record of administering effective therapies to treat a wide spectrum of psychiatric disorders in children. For more information on the many services that we provide, give us a call today.

By Valhalla Wellness & Medical Centers

May 27, 2021