If you worry that your child is suffering from an anxiety disorder, you're not alone. 13% of children and adolescents suffer from an anxiety disorder according to Worry Wise Kids. The site claims that anxiety is the most prevalent mental health disorder in America. There are many signs that your child will exhibit if he is suffering from anxiety. Once the signs are identified, seek the counsel of the child's pediatrician. She can help you create a treatment plan.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
If your child worries excessively about past, present or future events, she may be suffering from generalized anxiety disorder. Her tremendous stress could be triggered by events as minor as a conversation she overheard to more serious issues like her health, or schoolwork. ChildAnxiety.net describes the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder as restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping and muscle tension. Children with this type of anxiety disorder spend more time worrying than not worrying. They can't control their stress and it interferes with their daily activities.
Panic Disorder
If your child often has "panic attacks" she could be suffering from a common anxiety disorder called panic disorder. A panic attack is characterized by intense fear according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services website. The site claims that the child will experience a pounding heartbeat, dizziness, sweating, nausea or the feeling of imminent death. Children suffering from this disorder will go to great lengths to avoid anything that triggers an attack. "If your child's anxiety is related to school, she may say something on her body hurts or complain of stomach aches before or during school," says Dr. Elise Abromson, licensed child psychologist in Frederick, MD.
Social Anxiety Disorder
An overwhelming fear of being judged by others in social situations is social anxiety disorder. The Anxiety Disorders Association of America explains that victims of this disorder understand that their fear is excessive and irrational, but they can't control it. They feel powerless against their disorder. This disorder generally affects children as they enter adolescence. The organization lists clinginess, tantrums and extreme silence as symptoms of social anxiety disorder. Children suffering from this anxiety disorder have few friends and isolate themselves.
Separation Anxiety Disorder
Approximately one out of every 25 children suffers from separation anxiety disorder. These kids struggle with leaving their parents or loved ones. They "cling" to their parents during the day and fight the urge to sleep at night. Symptoms of separation anxiety disorder include depression and withdrawal according to Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services. Some children suffering from this anxiety disorder also live in fear that a family member will die.
