1. Often Overlooked
Some experts believe that anxiety in adults has its roots in childhood, even if it exists only in less-recognized symptoms. Childhood anxiety is often overlooked and may be one of the most under-diagnosed mental health issues in children today. One reason anxiety is overlooked is due to its variance from typical the adult version. In addition, some adults feel that mental health issues in children will abate on their own and are therefore, less likely to seek treatment.
2. Symptoms of Anxiety in Children
Childhood anxiety can take many forms and may not always appear as it does in adults. Physical symptoms include headache and nausea. Emotional signs include feelings of dread or worry about everyday events and include strong feelings of fear. While these fears and thoughts may be connected to regular activities, the anxious child will be overly preoccupied with them, making the event seem more serious than it actually is. The child may also exhibit specific compulsions or repetitive thoughts that are difficult to understand and may appear irrational to those around them.
3. Many Types of Anxiety Disorders
There are a wide array of anxiety disorders, some more prevalent than others. Parents should look for patterns of behavior that center around feelings of worry, difficulty interacting in social situations, or constant thoughts or compulsions that center around specific things or concepts. Such patterns could indicate not only the severity of the anxiety issues but the type of disorder.
4. Early Intervention Is the Key
To treat childhood anxiety, it is important to intervene early. Anxiety can lead to social isolation, causing further setbacks for the anxious child. The loss of friends, diminished academic interest and feelings of low self-esteem can cause even further-reaching issues in these children. Children with anxiety issues are more prone to depression than children without anxiety. It is important for parents to take these issues seriously at the beginning and seek appropriate treatment.
5. Getting Anxiety Treatment
Anxiety in children is treatable. Many times cognitive-behavioral therapy is able to help children develop positive coping mechanisms to work through their feelings. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is especially helpful since it works with not only the thoughts and emotions, but the specific behaviors that the child uses to cope with them. The therapist can then work with the child in developing more appropriate responses to these situations. Medical interventions are available as well and should be considered in cases of extreme anxiety. A child psychiatrist should work with the family to assist in the treatment of the child's anxiety with minimal side effects.
