Who Is at Risk?
Researchers have found that a person's basic temperament may play a role in some childhood and adolescent anxiety disorders. For example, some young people tend to be very shy and restrained in unfamiliar situations. This may be a sign that the child or adolescent is at risk for developing an anxiety disorder. Researchers also suggest watching for signs of anxiety disorders when children are between the ages of 6 and 8. At this age, children grow less afraid of the dark and imaginary creatures and more anxious about school performance and social relationships. High levels of anxiety in a child aged 6 to 8, therefore, may be a warning sign that the child may develop anxiety disorder later. A child's fears may change as a child ages, which complicates research. Studies suggest that children or adolescents are more likely to have an anxiety disorder if their parents have anxiety disorders. However, the studies do not prove whether the disorders are caused by biology, environment, or both.
What Can Parents Do?
If parents or other caregivers notice repeated symptoms of an anxiety disorder in a child or adolescent, they should: Talk with the child's doctor. The doctor can help determine whether the symptoms are caused by an anxiety disorder or by some other condition. Then, if needed, the doctor can refer the family to a mental health professional. Look for a mental health professional who has training and experience: working with children and adolescents; using cognitive-behavioral or behavior therapy; and prescribing medications for this disorder or, if appropriate,cooperating with a physician who prescribes medications.
Source: National Mental Health Information Center, Anxiety Disorders in Children and Adolescents
Related Terms
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
- Separation Anxiety Disorder
- Selective Mutism
- Social Anxiety Disorder
Related Resources:
Coping with Children's Anxiety
Strategies for parents to cope with children's anxiety and improve well-being at home and school.
Anxiety Disorders Net Links
Additional resources for parents of children with anxiety disorders.
Elsewhere on the Web:
DSM-IV Diagnostic Criteria - Anxiety Disorders
What the professionals use to diagnose this disorder. BehaveNet Clinical Capsules
