What is an Anxiety Disorder?
Fear is a natural human reaction caused by a part of the brain called the amygdala. An anxiety disorder occurs when someone has significant fears that cause distress and affect their ability to function. An anxiety disorder can be caused by genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Approximately 10% of children have an anxiety disorder. There are different types of anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, separation anxiety, specific phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, selective mutism, panic disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
What can you look for as a parent?
A child with an anxiety disorder will have increased fears or worries that interfere with their ability to function. They might have trouble sleeping, or concentrating. A child’s anxiety disorder could affect their behavior causing impulsivity, restlessness and hyperactivity. A child may also experience physical symptoms due to anxiety like trembling, stomach aches, nausea, vomiting, headaches, or shortness of breath.
What can you do if there is a concern?
Track potential patterns or triggers of anxiety by keeping a log of occasions when your child’s anxiety is interfering with daily life. Talk to your child’s teacher to see if their anxiety is affecting their behavior or success in school. Talk to your pediatrician about your child’s symptoms to rule out medical causes of the anxiety. If the anxiety is affecting your child’s function and happiness you can reach out to a therapist who works with children, teenagers and their families for additional support.
How can we help at The Sutcliffe Clinic?
Individual and Family Therapy
To address your concerns as a parent and to offer tools to reduce your child’s anxiety and its impact
Psychological Testing
To look deeper into mood regulations and other learning challenges that might contribute to your child’s anxiety
Medical Wellness
To determine if your child’s sleep, exercise and nutritional habits help minimize or contribute to anxiety. If symptoms persist, medication may help address your child’s anxiety