According to studies, about 4 million adult Americans suffer from an anxiety disorder. It usually begins in childhood. If left unmanaged or untreated, this would be carried on for years. It is more common in women than in men.
Although the exact cause of an anxiety disorder is unknown, it is believed that it is caused by several factors. Research shows that genetics play a role in the development of anxiety. A person with a family history of an anxiety disorder increases his chance of developing an anxiety disorder. Another factor is physiologic, particularly in the brain. People with an anxiety disorder has abnormal levels of neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA). Abnormal levels of those neurotransmitters alter how the brain reacts to a stimulus. The last factor would be environmental. Anxiety may develop primarily because of traumatic events, and use and withdrawal of addictive substances.
Even though anxiety disorders are psychologic, it also results to physical symptoms. The child would feel an excessive worry to a particular situation, which is primarily due to abnormal levels of neurotransmitters in the brain. He would also have an unrealistic view of problems. He is always pessimistic about something, and sometimes they may feel a sense of impending doom. He becomes restless and irritable. He may also experience muscle tension, trembling, headaches, and sweating. He also tends to lose focus, because he is excessively worried about something. Due to excess worrying, he may experience nausea and feel the urge to go to the bathroom frequently, either to defecate or urinate. Due to the stress he is experiencing, he becomes tired; however he would have trouble sleeping. He can be easily startled, since he lost his focus and his mind is wandering and focusing on something else.
When these symptoms show, it is important to help the child relax. This is achieved by teaching the proper breathing technique; letting him vent out his feelings about the certain situation; teaching him to redirect his thoughts to something that is relaxing. You, yourself, should also be calm during an anxiety attack because if you also become anxious, it may worsen the child's anxiety. You should also reassure the child that everything is going to be fine and that you are there for him no matter what happens. Also, establish an exercise routine for the child because it can help in relaxation. Ensure that the child is given proper nutrition by giving him those healthy foods that he likes. And, lastly, give a child a relaxing environment as he sleeps and make sure he gets at least 7-10 hours of sleep at night.
In today's crazy world, it's not surprising that childhood anxiety symptoms are becoming more and more prevalent. To know more about it, check out http://www.childhoodanxietydisorderhelp.com/
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