Anxiety

About 11% of children aged 3-17 have a diagnosed anxiety disorder, which can negatively affect their quality of life when untreated. At Galaxy Pediatrics in Red Oak and Plano, Texas, the experienced pediatric doctors and nurse practitioners screen for and help treat anxiety in kids, teenagers, and young adults. Schedule an evaluation by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.

What are anxiety disorders?

Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions that often affect a child’s well-being. While most children feel anxious now and then, anxiety disorders cause frequent or intense anxiousness that can interfere with their daily life, preventing a child from living their best life. 

See the experts at Galaxy Pediatrics if you suspect your child has an anxiety disorder or they need help managing a previously diagnosed condition. 

Which symptoms can anxiety cause?

An anxiety disorder can lead to:

• Extreme or ongoing fear and worry
• Panic attacks
• Nervousness, restlessness, or tenseness in everyday situations
• Sense of impending doom or danger
• Trembling
• Sweating
• Increased heart rate
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Trouble concentrating or sleeping
• Upset stomach or other digestive problems
• Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety
• Difficulty controlling worry

The exact symptoms your child experiences depend on the type and severity of their anxiety disorder.

What are the different types of anxiety disorders?

The following are examples of anxiety disorders:

• Agoraphobia: fearing places or situations that cause panic or feeling trapped
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): persistent and excessive worry
• Anxiety linked to a health condition: anxiousness caused by a medical problem
• Selective mutism: only speaking in certain situations 
• Panic disorder: having repeated panic attacks (feelings of intense fear or terror)
• Social anxiety disorder: anxiety when around other people
• Separation anxiety disorder: anxiety about being separated from caregivers
• Phobias: intense fear of specific things, such as heights, bugs, or elevators
• Substance-induced anxiety disorder: anxiety or panic linked to the misuse of harmful substances

Not all anxiety disorders fit into specific categories, but they can still cause major distress in children, teenagers, and young adults. 

What are the risk factors for anxiety disorders?

While the cause of anxiety disorders isn’t fully understood, they may stem from genetic and environmental factors. Examples include a family history of anxiety, chronic diseases, some medications, or past trauma. Stress, alcohol or drug use, and certain personality traits are risk factors, too.

How are anxiety disorders treated?

Treating anxiety often consists of making lifestyle changes, taking medications, or undergoing therapy to help your child overcome debilitating symptoms. The Galaxy Pediatrics team offers referrals when needed and follows up to ensure superior outcomes.

Schedule an evaluation at Galaxy Pediatrics by phone or request one online today to have your child screened or treated for an anxiety disorder.