Everyone feels nervous or anxious at one time or another. It's a natural part of life. However, some people feel anxious about a number of things, most of the time. This prevalent sense of anxiety is typically a sign of generalized anxiety disorder, according to MayoClinic.com. Generalized anxiety disorder can occur in children as well as adults. Parents must work with their child's doctor to ensure that treatment is successful.
Step 1
Write down your observations of the impact of anxiety on your child's daily life. You can use this information in a discussion with your child's physician to rule out any situation-specific factors that could be causing anxiety. This information also allows the physician to monitor the effectiveness of the medication if the situation seems to be improving.
Step 2
Administer the medication according to the physician's recommendations. Most physicians typically prescribe a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI, for anxiety in children. Parents should also inform their child's teacher or the school nurse if medications must be administered during the day. Explaining this process to the child can also help him feel more at ease about taking his medication.
Step 3
Monitor the occurrence of side effects. Common side effects include headaches, stomachaches, nausea and difficulty sleeping. Prolonged occurrences of side effects may be an indication that the dosage of medication should be adjusted.
Step 4
Locate a psychotherapist for the child. MayoClinic.com indicates that medications are typically used to lessen or manage symptoms of anxiety and are prescribed in conjunction with psychotherapy to treat the child's anxiety. The therapist can help to teach the child methods for coping with his anxiety. Finding a therapist who can relate well with the child helps ensure the effectiveness of the therapy sessions.
Step 5
Talk to your child and be as supportive as possible. Parents should let their child know that they are there for him no matter what and will assist him in whatever way they can. Having anxiety can cause a child to feel very isolated. Knowing that he is not alone can be extremely comforting.
