All children experience some anxiety, such as when they move to a new town or take a test in school. But problems develop if youngsters are too anxious or nervous, according to The Childhood Anxiety Network. When that happens, their schoolwork can suffer, along with their personal and social lives. However, there are ways to help childhood anxiety disorders, but many children are misdiagnosed and don't receive adequate treatment.
Evaluation
Detailed evaluation is the first step toward helping teen or childhood anxiety, according to the American Academy of Adolescent and Child Psychiatry. A mental health professional should look at the severity of symptoms; serious physical conditions such as asthma or diabetes; medications that may contribute to anxiety; and academic, family and social life. AACD states that an evaluation may reveal the direct cause of anxiety; for instance, a student may not want to attend school because of bullying or an undetected learning problem.
Counseling
Different kinds of counseling can treat childhood anxiety, but cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of the most effective. The Childhood Anxiety Network states that this kind of treatment teaches children to identify their anxious thoughts and replace them with more positive ones. CBT involves parents too; they learn to help their children practice the new skills and to reinforce successful behaviors. The Anxiety Disorders Association reports that CBT sessions may be short term---often about three months---but the benefits can be long-lasting.
Medication
Doctors prescribe medication for childhood anxiety, especially if symptoms are severe. Prescription drugs may work effectively with cognitive-behavioral therapy, according to the Anxiety Disorders Association. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are often prescribed, but other types of medications are also used, such as tricyclic antidepressants and benzodiazepines. In 2004, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration reported antidepressants, including SSRIs, may increase suicidal thoughts in children, but the FDA didn't ban those medications. As with any drug, your doctor will recommend how long your child should take anti-anxiety medicine, depending on the severity of the condition and the response to treatment.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Dietary and lifestyle changes may reduce childhood anxiety, according to KeepKidsHealthy.com. A lot of caffeine can increase agitation, so limit your child's amounts of caffeine-heavy foods and sodas. Also, if possible, try to avoid stimulant-containing asthma medications and nasal decongestants. As for lifestyle, make sure your child gets enough sleep, and remove as many stressors as you can at home and school.
