Anxiety is a normal emotion that people experience at various stages of life. However, when this anxiety becomes persistent and excessive, affecting a child's daily activities, it develops into a psychological disorder known as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
A large number of children suffer from this disorder without being diagnosed in a timely manner, which impacts their psychological and social development.
What is generalized anxiety disorder in children?
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in children is a psychological condition characterized by excessive and chronic anxiety disproportionate to the situations the child faces. The child experiences constant fear of things that may not actually be threatening, such as academic performance, health, natural disasters, or even social relationships. This anxiety often impacts the quality of their daily life, including sleep, school, and communication with others.
Causes of generalized anxiety disorder in children
There is no clear cause for generalized anxiety disorder, but several factors contribute to its development, such as:
- Genetic factors, i.e., a family history of anxiety or psychological disorders.
- Environmental factors, such as exposure to family stress or negative experiences such as divorce or bullying.
- Chemical composition, such as an imbalance in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine.
- Parenting styles such as overprotectiveness or excessive criticism by parents.
- Highly sensitive children or children with a tendency toward perfectionism are more susceptible.
Symptoms of Children with Anxiety Disorder
Symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder in children appear in several forms, including:
- Persistent, uncontrollable worry.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Repeated complaints of headaches or stomach aches without an organic cause.
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
- Avoiding activities or places that cause anxiety for the child.
- Repeated crying spells.
- Constantly seeking reassurance from parents.
- Fear that bad things will happen to them or their loved ones.
Methods for Diagnosing Anxiety Disorder in Children
Generalized anxiety disorder in children is usually diagnosed through:
- Interviews with a doctor or psychologist.
- Behavioral questionnaires to assess the child's behavior.
- Medical and psychological history to determine the frequency of symptoms and their occurrence in different situations.
- Symptoms must persist for at least six months for a child to be diagnosed with the disorder.
Long-Term Complications of Generalized Anxiety Disorder
If left untreated or uncontrolled, anxiety disorder can lead to:
- Poor academic performance.
- Weak social relationships.
- Sleep problems and eating disorders.
- Tendency to social withdrawal.
- Development of other mental health disorders such as depression and panic disorder.
Medications Used to Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Medications are not always the first choice, but doctors may prescribe them in cases of severe anxiety. These include:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine.
- Anti-anxiety medications, such as buspirone.
Important Warning: Medications should only be used under close medical supervision and their side effects should be monitored closely.
Methods for Treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Children
Psychotherapy is the first choice in most cases and includes:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy to help the child identify anxious thoughts and replace them with realistic ones.
- Relaxation and deep breathing techniques to reduce stress.
- Family therapy includes sessions with parents to teach them how to support the child.
- Participating in support groups with people with the same disorder.
Can children be prevented from the risk of developing the disorder?
It is not completely preventable, but the risk of developing the disorder can be reduced by:
- Boosting the child's self-confidence.
- Teaching the child stress-management skills.
- Avoiding the transmission of anxiety from the parent to the child.
- Providing a safe and stable environment at home.
How does generalized anxiety disorder affect children?
Generalized anxiety disorder affects a child's daily life, affecting:
- Academic achievement.
- The child's ability to make friends.
- Their recreational activities.
- Their general sense of happiness and comfort.
- The child may become more prone to isolation and social withdrawal.
The Role of Parents in Helping Their Child with the Disorder
Parents have a significant role in treating and supporting their child by:
- Listening to the child's concerns without belittling or exaggerating.
- Not ridiculing their anxiety or comparing them to others.
- Encouraging them to express their feelings.
- Cooperating with treatment specialists. Adherence to the treatment plan and monitoring changes in behavior.
- Provide a supportive and stable environment.
Article Summary
Generalized anxiety disorder in children is not just a passing fear. Rather, it is a disorder that requires real understanding and support through identifying its causes and symptoms, providing appropriate treatment, and providing family support.
In some cases, medication is used, but cognitive behavioral therapy is the most effective. It can be prevented by providing a safe and supportive environment by helping the child express their feelings. Parents play an important role in supporting the child and encouraging them to overcome their fears and live a normal life.