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Childhood anxiety disorders are when a child or teen experiences a stressful situation that would normally result in an anxious response, but is met with an excessive anxious response, has difficulty controlling it, and these responses can affect the person’s day to day living. Anxiety disorders separate themselves from normal anxious responses by having symptoms lasting at least 6 months, and can get worse if not treated.

 

1 in 8 children are affected by anxiety orders, which may cause them to perform poorly in school, avoid social situations or events, and begin using drugs.

 

Types of Anxiety Disorders (click for more information)

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Panic Disorder (PD)

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Social Phobia (Social Anxiety Disorder)

• Separation Anxiety Disorder

 

General Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders

• Overreaction to normal situations

• Unable to calm or soothe self

• Muscle Tension

• Fatigue

• Restlessness

• Difficulty sleeping

• Irritability or edginess

• Trouble concentrating

• Incessent worrying

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Visit our Classroom Warning Signs for recognizing childhood anxiety disorders within the classroom setting.

 

Additional Resources:

• WorryWiseKids: Childhood Anxiety Page

• Anxiety and Depression Association of America: Childhood Anxiety

• National Institute of Mental Health: Anxiety Disorders

• Two Questions All Parents of Young Kids Should Ask Themselves