Anxiety in Kids: Understanding Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

 Disorders of anxiety are one of the more prevalent mental health issues that children face in our time. Being aware of the symptoms of the disorder, its causes, and types of these conditions is essential to early intervention and efficient treatment. This blog provides a comprehensive overview of the different kinds of pediatric anxiety disorders.

Understanding Childhood Anxiety Disorders

Disorders of anxiety in children are disorders which cause anxiety and fear among children and adversely affect their behavior, moods and sleeping habits. They can also affect their relationships and activities at school and at home and may create physical symptoms such as shortness of breath or dizziness. Common types of anxiety disorders that affect children are:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Children are often worried over everyday things such as homework and exams along with other things such as recess, bus rides or train or wartime, or even losing an individual they love. Children suffering from this disorder frequently struggle to concentrate in school or sleeping properly as well as having difficulties enjoying themselves or relaxing regardless of what they enjoy.

Social Anxiety Disorder

The result is that children feel fearful of what people might say or think about their opinions. They might be hesitant to be the center of attention at all cost and may have difficulty taking notes in class or required to deliver an task. Children suffering from social anxiety disorders may experience dizziness, lightheadedness or breathlessness prior to leaving for school or meet with others.

Separation Anxiety Disorder

The result is that children feel overwhelmed by the thought of being separated from their parents or caregiver. They may not be able to attend school, playdates or any other social setting and might cry or pretend to be sick if they are forced to leave.

Selective Mutism

It is a serious type of social anxiety that renders children incapable of talking in a social setting. But, this doesn't mean children can't speak, it's just that they are unable to talk in their homes or with those they are comfortable around.

Panic Disorder

It is more prevalent in teenagers than in younger children. It can be characterized by panic attacks that result in the sensation of lightheadedness, breathlessness as well as a tense heart and jittery feelings.

Phobias

A phobia is a severe and long-lasting fear of dark, thunder insects, blood, needles, or any other thing. While it's typical for young children to be scared of certain things but a phobia is characterized by a strong fear that hinders a child's normal activities. For example children who are afraid of needles might refuse to visit the doctor, or be scared even when they see needles on television.

Cause of Childhood Anxiety Disorders

There is usually no obvious cause for anxiety in children. The circumstances that cause one child to be anxious may make another child unaffected. Possible causes of childhood anxiety disorders are:

Brain Chemistry: Conditions or genetic factors that hinder the way that neurotransmitters function could cause heightened emotions and stress

History of the family: Kids who have immediate family members who have suffered from the disorder of anxiety are much more likely suffer from one.

The learned behaviour of children who are raised in a household that is constantly anxious or "on edge" constantly could pick up these behaviors

Life-threatening events like the death of a loved one severe illness divorce of parents or abuse, as well as the pressure of bullying can cause children to suffer from anxiety disorders.

Diagnosing Childhood Anxiety at Plexus

At Plexus we use the three steps to reach a conclusive diagnosis.

Step 1: Recognising Symptoms

The first step to diagnose anxiety disorders in children is recognizing the signs. The most common signs are:

The symptoms of separation anxiety include excessive anxiety over being separated from family or caregivers and a reluctance at going to school, and fears about being separated.

A generalized anxiety disorder Continuous anxiety about different aspects of life, like social interaction and school performance and physical signs such as stomachaches and headaches.

Disorder of social anxiety: A heightened anxiety around social situations, avoidance of social interactions, and a fear of being judged and humiliated.

Other signs: restlessness and fatigue, trouble in concentration, irritability and tension in muscles, as well as sleep disturbances.

Step 2. Professional Evaluation

If anxiety-related symptoms are noticed and a thorough examination. The process of diagnosing typically involves:

Clinical Interviews Conducting interviews with the child as well as their parents to collect details about the child's symptoms as well as their behavior and the history of their family.

Behavioral Assessments Standardised questionnaires and behavior tests can help us determine particular anxiety disorders and determine the intensity of symptoms.

The direct observation of the child's behavior in various environments, like school and at home, can provide an additional insight into their fears.

Step 3. Differential Diagnosis

It is important to differentiate anxiety disorders from other mental health conditions that may have similar symptoms, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or depression. An exhaustive evaluation will ensure the accuracy of diagnosis and a suitable treatment program.

Treating Childhood Anxiety at Plexus

After a complete assessment and diagnosis Our therapists can suggest the following steps to support your child:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is the most effective treatment option for anxiety problems for children. It is focused on identifying and changing the negative thoughts and behaviors which contribute to anxiety. Its key components in CBT include:

Learning to Restructure the Brain: assisting children understand and confront irrational fears, and replace them with more rational thoughts

Experiential Therapy: Slowly expose children to fearsome objects or situations in a controlled fashion to decrease anxiety over time.

Skills Training: Teaching strategies for coping that help you solve problems, and relaxation techniques to help manage anxiety

Family Therapy

Family dynamics be a major factor in the development and perpetuation of anxiety problems for children. Family therapy is the process of working with parents and children to improve communication, lessen anxiety, and establish an environment that is supportive of the home. It also helps parents discover effective ways to deal with their anxiety-ridden child.

School-Based Interventions

Working with teachers and counselors is crucial to help children who suffer from anxiety disorders. Interventions for children at school can include:

Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) Individualized Education Plans (IEPs): Customized plans that offer accommodation, for example, prolonged time for exams and assignments or a quiet place to take breaks.

Social Skills Training Programmes designed to teach children the skills to communicate with their peers and build positive social connections.

Teacher Training: Teaching teachers about anxiety disorders as well as efficient strategies for supporting students who are anxious.

Lifestyle Changes and Home Strategies

Parents can use a variety of methods at home that can reduce their child's anxiety.

Routine and Structure: Creating an established routine for your day can give you a sense of security and ease anxiety.

Healthy Lifestyle: Promoting regular physical exercise and a balanced diet and getting enough sleep is essential to the overall health of your mind.

Relaxation Techniques Training and using relaxation techniques, like deep breathing exercises and progressive muscle relaxation and mindfulness meditation can aid children in managing anxiety symptoms.

The early diagnosis as well as intervention  are essential for the prevention of long-term problems and to promoting the best possible life for children who suffer from anxiety disorders.

For more information on our treatment plans for children suffering from anxiety disorders Contact Team Plexus today.

WhatsApp +91 89048 42087

Call +91 78159 64668 (Hyderabad) | +91 82299 99888 (Bangalore)