Anxiety Disorder In Children : Why Treatment Is Necessary

Thirty years ago, children who balked at going to school were assumed to be unmotivated and lazy. Most parents assumed that their children had a "bad attitude" about school and that they would somehow grow out of it. Psychologists are now re-evaluating school phobia as an anxiety disorder that warrants early treatment and intervention.

Why Treatment is Necessary

Experts are urging parents to be aware of anxiety symptoms in children so that the disorder can be treated early. Studies suggest that failure to identify the disorder and begin treatment leads to poor performance in schools, increased anxiety, depression and substance abuse later in life.

Anxiety disorder may prevent children from "bonding" with school life; it may also prevent children from participating in activities that are developmental milestones for their age group. Avoiding social situations in school and elsewhere may lead to fewer opportunities for children to develop social skills necessary for success in adult life.

What Kinds of Treatment Options are Available

A major research on treatment options for anxiety in children has been conducted at seven medical institutions across USA. What was significant about this study was its goal to compare different treatment options in children and teens diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

These options were a) the use of antidepressant medication, b) cognitive behavior therapy and c) a combination of both treatments.

According to this study involving 488 children( 7-17 years old), over a 12 week period, 81% of children improved with the combination treatment while 60 % improved with psychotherapy treatment, which in this study was cognitive behavior therapy, a specific therapy that helps children face and manage their fears.

55% improved with antidepressant medication. In this study, the antidepressant used was sertraline (Zoloft), a selective serotonin uptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are designed to increase serotonin levels in the brain cells.

A placebo group that was used as control, 24% improved. Results of the study also show that all treatments are safe.

The fact that all three treatments are effective provides parents with options and choices. Cognitive Behavior Therapy combined with lifestyle changes can have dramatic impact on anxiety disorders in children. SSRIs are designed to increase serotonin levels in the brain cells. Results of the study also show that all treatments are safe.

The fact that all three treatments are effective provides parents with options and choices. Cognitive Behavior Therapy combined with lifestyle changes can have dramatic impact on anxiety disorders in children.

What Parents Can Do

If your child consistently complains of an upset stomach or physical pains before school, you should make an appointment with your physician. Voice your concern and seek professional advice.

Your child could also behave in a fidgety, clinging manner for an extended period of time. If this behavior interferes with school attendance and performance, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

By:
Bianca Tora

Bianca Tora Ph.D. is a writer interested in the relationship between lifestyle and the brain, specifically the area of emotional regulation and control. She has written a book on anger management for children. Visit her help-your-child-with-anger