Children can suffer from anxiety issues just as adults do. Their symptoms are somewhat different, and the causes may be slightly different as well, but the bottom line is these children are suffering and need help.
One of the challenges that parents face is recognizing the symptoms. It is no secret that children have issues as a normal part of growing up. Distinguishing between normal reactions and reactions based on anxiety can be difficult.
There are several treatment options that parents can consider once they have a professional diagnosis that their child has an anxiety disorder. These options are based on two broad categories: counseling and medication.
Under counseling, children with anxiety may benefit from psychotherapy. This type of treatment can help the child to learn coping skills in order for them to be less critical of themselves. For many children, they feel as if they have to be perfect in all things. This, of course, is impossible.
Because they feel they have to be perfect, children may avoid taking part in certain activities that they fear they may not excel in such as sports. Through psychotherapy, they can learn to be less severe on themselves.
Another counseling option is called Cognitive Behavioral-Therapy or CBT. This type of counseling is considered effective for children with anxiety disorders. It is most effective when taught by a trained professional. The goal is help the child to recognize when they are becoming worried or anxious and to then use the tools and skills taught to them to deal with their feelings in a positive manner.
In addition, school counseling can prove to be very helpful. This type of counseling can help children whose anxiety is school-performance based. Counselors at school can help children work through the specific issues that come about at school, including stress about grades and relationships with peers.
In terms of medications, children with severe symptoms may benefit from drug therapy. Drug therapy should never be started without first consulting with a professional health provider. Child psychiatrist specialize in prescribing medications for children, who have unique needs compared to adults.
For many children, antidepressant medications, such as Zoloft, Celexa, or Lexapro can be effective for anxiety. These drugs regulate certain types of chemistry within the brain.
In addition to medication and counseling, parents can also help their children by reassuring them and presenting a calm environment within the home. Parents can also teach their children relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises which are known to be effective in most children.
It's important for parents to help their children work through the anxiety, because children will often model the anxiety of their parents. The more a parent displays a calm demeanor, the more the child will have a good role model for how to approach their own anxiety.
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