Anxiety in children and adolescents is one of the most prevalent mental health concerns today. Some anxiety is common in children and teens and a normal experience. Anxiety can be a reaction to stress or feeling uncomfortable in a situation. When anxiety becomes excessive and causes ongoing distress in the child or teen’s daily living, an anxiety disorder might be occurring.
Symptoms of anxiety can include headaches, stomach aches, difficulty with sleep, school refusal, crying, clinginess, moodiness, and seeking excessive reassurance. A child or teen with anxiety may often display unrealistic, negative and catastrophic thinking. Other forms of anxiety can entail avoidance of social interactions, obsessive thoughts and rituals, severe traumatic reactions, and specific fears.
Anxiety disorders that can impact children include:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Social Anxiety
- Separation Anxiety
- Panic Disorder
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Specific Phobias
Our team of experienced and expert therapists are trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, the top evidenced based approach in treating anxiety disorders. CBT approaches include helping the child or teen understanding their anxiety, learning how to identify and change irrational anxiety provoking thoughts, relaxation training, and exposures. Tasks between sessions are often a vital part of treatment. Additional techniques are used for helping with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and PTSD. Our goal is for the child or teen and parents to feel empowered with the tools and methods necessary to reduce the symptoms and learn how manage anxiety long term.
If your child or teen is struggling with anxiety, our experienced and compassionate therapist are ready to help. Call the Child and Family Solutions Center at (248) 851-5437 or text us at (248) 871-7622. We offer free phone consultations and can schedule fast appointments.