Did you know that somewhere between 4% and 10% of older adults are diagnosed with anxiety disorder? It's surprising to learn that many of these adults actually developed anxiety disorders as children.
Anxiety in children often goes unnoticed because the symptoms mimic other behaviors that are considered normal in children.
Symptoms of anxiety in children can begin to present when they are as young as 18 months. These symptoms should be treated as soon as possible to avoid further complications throughout adulthood.
Children and adults both experience a certain degree of anxiety, and that's perfectly normal. However, if the symptoms become recurrent and so severe that they take over daily activities, it can be very overpowering and wreak havoc.
Although it can be hard to notice signs of an anxiety disorder, there are certain symptoms you should be on the lookout for.Some of the more prevalent ones are:
-Poor concentration
-Restlessness
-Irritability
-Trouble sleeping and other sleep disorders
-Excessive Sweating
-Nausea
-Headache
-Always tired (fatigue)
-Temper tantrums
-Complains of chills
-Contantly expresses fear
-Dizziness
-Shakes
-Muscles tense (especially facial)
-Becomes withdrawn and isolated
It's easy to see how this can adversely affect a child, and how much a child can really suffer from this affliction.
As a parent, you must learn to recognize these symptoms, and seek help if you believe your child is suffering from an anxiety disorder.
There are several things that you can do immediately to ease their anxiety. Here are 5 steps you can take to help your child overcome panic attacks:
1. Educate Yourself
The first thing you should do is get some books on the subject, or do research on the internet. You'll be much better equipped to handle the situation if you know what to expect and can identify with how your child is feeling.
2. Educate Your Child
You'd be surprised at what a child can comprehend. Talk to them about what is going, and let them know what is happening to their body when they experience anxiety. Reassure them that you will be there to help, and that they are going to get over it.
3. Breathing And Counting Exercises
Teach your child some simple breathing and counting exercises. When an anxiety attack comes on, ask them to close their eyes, take a deep breath and count backwards from ten while thinking about their favorite toy or favorite book.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement
Reassure them that everything is going to be alright as they are counting and breathing. After the attack is over, tell them what a great job they did and how proud you are of them. This will reinforce the calming method as a positive experience and motivate them to do it again, should another attack occur.
5. Get Them Professional Help
While calming and breathing exercises help, they are just a plug in the dam. The attacks will most likely continue, and may get worse. You should seek the help of a professional. They are best equipped to give your child the help they so desperately need.
Most parents associate the words "professional help" with therapy and drugs. It's important to know there are other options, such as The Anxiety Free Child Program .
This program teaches the parent to be the primary person responsible for helping their child beat anxiety. It focuses on educating the parent by teaching them proven methods to help their child overcome all forms of anxiety.
