According to Dr. William T. Goldman of keepkidshealthy.com, studies suggest that anxiety disorders and symptoms are actually the most prevalent health problem in America, with an estimated 25 percent of all adults suffering from an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. Although it is thought that many anxiety disorders in adults begin during childhood, these diseases often go undiagnosed and are not properly treated, even though they can be managed.
Step 1
Differentiate between different kinds of anxiety disorders. Kids can suffer from generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, post-traumatic stress disorder, acute stress disorder, phobias, and other unclassified anxiety disorders. Understanding the specific type of anxiety that a child is experiencing (usually by having a consultation from a pediatric psychiatrist or psychologist) is critical to treating the anxiety.
Step 2
Understand the source of the anxiety. Anxiety can be purely psychological, genetic, biological (e.g. due to abnormal levels of neurotransmitters), or due to medical conditions (such as hyperthyroidism, lung disease or adrenaline-secreting tumors). Most often, anxiety in kids is due to a combination of these factors, which can guide treatment.
Step 3
Utilize psychological treatments. A psychiatrist or psychologist may try cognitive therapies (which try to recognize the thought processes that lead to anxiety), psychotherapy (focuses on resolving stresses and conflicts) or behavioral therapies (works to eliminate phobias and reduce anxiety responses).
Step 4
Consider medications. A pediatric psychiatrist may recommend benzodiazepines, antihistamines, serotonin-affecting medications, tricyclic drugs or tranquilizers. These all require a prescription.
Step 5
Use environmental techniques. This includes eliminating stimulants such as caffeine and some nasal decongestants. Look for medications that don't include pseudoephedrine. Ensure that your child goes to bed at roughly the same time each evening and gets eight hours of sleep every night. In addition, it can be helpful to have a designated "quiet" area of the house for your child to do schoolwork, read and unwind.
