Does Your Child have an Anxiety Disorder?
By Lori Schwartz, LCSW, The Children's Center, Mental Health Centers of Central Illinois
Parent University Newsletter, Vol. 14, No. 1, Winter 2009
Anxiety is defined as "the subjective sense of worry, apprehension, fear, and distress." Anxiety typically has two components: physical sensations (headaches, nausea, sweating) and the emotional feelings of nervousness and far. All children experience stress or anxiety at one time or another. Anxiety is expected at different times in development and in different situations. For example, from the time a child is 8 months to preschool years, children may show intense anxiety when they are separated from their parents. Children may also have short-term fears such as fear of the dark, storms, or animals.
In other words, anxiety is normal. In fact, it is considered a beneficial response in certain dangerous situations. When someone perceives threat or danger, their body responds with a "flight or fight" response. This is the body's primitive, automatic, inborn response that prepares the body to "fight" or "flee" from perceived attack, harm or threat to our survival. Our awareness intensifies, our sight sharpens, and our impulses quicken.
However, anxiety becomes problematic at times. The main difference between normal anxiety and problem anxiety is the intensity of it and how much it hinders usual life functions. Normal anxiety is intermittent and is expected based on certain events or situations. On the other hand, problem anxiety tends to be chronic, irrational and interferes with many life functions. A child with problem anxiety may exhibit avoidance behavior, incessant worry and concentration or memory problems. These symptoms may be so intense that they cause family, school and social difficulties. A child may also exhibit physical responses to anxiety such as complaining their stomach is upset or their heart is beating fast. Left unchecked, problem anxiety may lead to an anxiety disorder.
If your child's anxiety is severe, it is important to talk to your doctor. They may refer you to a mental health professional to evaluate your child. Untreated anxiety can result in loss of friendships, failure to reach academic potential and feelings of low self esteem. Fortunately, anxiety problems are very treatable. Treatments may include a combination of psychotherapy, family therapy, medications, behavioral treatments and consultation to the school. Don't be afraid to ask for help!