Anxiety

Understanding Anxiety in Children and Adolescents

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health condition in children, with the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimating that approximately 9.4% of children in the U.S. have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Anxiety can take many forms, from generalized anxiety to specific phobias, and can manifest in both emotional and physical symptoms. For many children, anxiety can affect their academic performance, relationships with peers, and participation in activities they once enjoyed.

Common Types of Anxiety in Children and Adolescents:

Recognizing the Signs of Anxiety in Children

Anxiety in children can be difficult to recognize because the symptoms often overlap with other common childhood behaviors. However, there are several signs that may indicate your child is struggling with an anxiety disorder:

• Excessive worry about everyday situations, often out of proportion to the actual risk.
• Avoidance of activities such as school, social events, or extracurricular activities due to fear or nervousness.
• Physical symptoms including headaches, stomachaches, fatigue, or muscle tension without a clear medical cause.
• Irritability or mood swings, particularly when facing stressful situations.
• Sleep disturbances such as difficulty falling asleep, frequent nightmares, or waking up in the middle of the night.
• Restlessness or difficulty concentrating, which may affect school performance or participation in activities.

If your child consistently exhibits these behaviors or if their anxiety is impacting their ability to enjoy life, it’s important to seek professional help.

Diagnosing Anxiety Disorders in Children

At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing anxiety disorders in children and adolescents. Our pediatricians conduct thorough assessments, which include reviewing the child’s medical history, observing their behavior, and speaking with both the child and their caregivers about their emotional and physical symptoms.

In some cases, we may collaborate with mental health specialists, such as child psychologists, to gain further insight into the nature of the child’s anxiety and develop a detailed treatment plan. Early diagnosis is key to managing anxiety effectively and preventing it from becoming more severe as the child grows.

Treatment Options for Childhood and Adolescent Anxiety

Effective treatment for childhood and adolescent anxiety often involves a combination of therapeutic approaches tailored to the child’s individual needs. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we work closely with families to create personalized care plans that address both the emotional and physical aspects of anxiety. Our goal is to help children learn coping strategies that allow them to manage their anxiety and lead fulfilling lives.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments for anxiety in children and adolescents. CBT helps children identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to their anxiety, replacing them with more realistic and positive ways of thinking. Through therapy, children learn practical coping skills to manage their anxiety, reduce their worry, and face situations that may cause fear or discomfort.

CBT is often structured around exposure therapy, where children are gradually exposed to feared situations in a controlled and supportive environment. Over time, this helps them build confidence and reduce avoidance behaviors.

Family Therapy and Parental Support

Anxiety in children can affect the entire family, and family therapy can be a crucial component of treatment. Family therapy helps parents and caregivers understand their child’s anxiety and learn how to support them effectively. It also fosters open communication and encourages family members to work together in creating a calm and supportive home environment.

We also provide guidance for parents on setting boundaries, reducing accommodations for anxiety-driven behaviors, and encouraging their child to confront their fears in a healthy way.

Medication

For children with moderate to severe anxiety that does not respond to therapy alone, medication may be recommended. Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are commonly used to help manage anxiety symptoms in children. These medications can help regulate mood and reduce the intensity of anxiety, allowing the child to better engage in therapy.

Medication is usually prescribed in combination with therapy, and our pediatricians will monitor the child closely to ensure the treatment is effective and safe.

Long-Term Support and Care

Managing childhood and adolescent anxiety often requires ongoing care and support. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we provide continuous monitoring of your child’s progress, adjusting treatment plans as needed and offering additional resources to help your child maintain emotional well-being. We work closely with schools and other healthcare providers to ensure that children with anxiety receive the accommodations and support they need in all aspects of their lives.

By addressing anxiety early and providing comprehensive care, we help children build resilience and develop the tools they need to manage anxiety into adolescence and adulthood.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Anxiety