Anxiety Treatment in Texas for Children & Teens

There are various types of anxiety disorders that can be observed at various ages and stages of a child’s life. These can include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, separation anxiety disorder, phobic disorders, and adjustment disorder.

Many parents believe that their child will grow out of their anxiety and that simply waiting it out will help. Untreated anxiety in children can often lead to more serious avoidance behavior problems later in life. Untreated anxiety can also increase depressive symptoms for children as they are unable to cope with their anxious stressors and do not find a sense of relief. Anxiety disorders are the most common childhood mental health disorder and are estimated to affect about 8% of all children and adolescents.

Anxiety disorders in children can many times be managed by therapy alone, but there are times that the addition of medication may be needed to help alleviate some of the symptoms. It has been shown that the combination of medication and evidenced based treatment interventions yields the most effective results.

While medication does indeed help lessen the symptoms, using an evidence-based treatment model will help children learn coping skills that can be useful well into adulthood. Evidenced-based treatment interventions such as play therapy are an effective tool to help children learn about themselves while also learning techniques to help them cope with their symptoms.

The goal of therapy when medication is needed is that children are weaned off of medications as soon and as safely as possible, while fostering the copings skills that will be utilized throughout their lives.

It’s time to seek help if you, your child, or others who frequently interact with your child notice behaviors or emotions that seem out of the ordinary. This includes if your child struggles with adapting to daily changes, exhibits excessive tearfulness or clinginess, or faces challenges with sleeping. Your child may also complain of physical symptoms, such as frequent tummy aches or headaches. These signs indicate that your child might be grappling with anxiety that could benefit from professional evaluation and treatment. Early intervention can significantly ease your child’s distress and improve their ability to cope with anxiety.

For managing anxiety, medication has proven effective, especially when used alongside therapy. The medications commonly prescribed are Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs). SSRIs and SNRIs help by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, neurotransmitters that play a key role in mood regulation and communication between nerve cells.

However, it’s important to be aware of possible side effects, which can include sleep disturbances, gastrointestinal issues, skin rashes, headaches, mood changes, dizziness, and in rare cases, suicidal thoughts. There may also be interactions with other medications your child is taking. It’s crucial to have an open dialogue with your healthcare provider to carefully weigh the benefits against the potential risks and to monitor your child’s response to the medication closely.

Supporting your child’s anxiety treatment at home involves a holistic approach that touches on various aspects of their daily life. Encouraging healthy eating habits and regular physical activity can significantly impact their mood and energy levels, positively affecting their mental health. Additionally, setting limits on screen time, especially before bed, can help improve their sleep quality and overall well-being. Establishing a consistent sleep routine is crucial for managing anxiety, as well as fostering an environment that emphasizes their strengths and interests. By integrating these practices into your family’s lifestyle, you can offer invaluable support that complements professional treatment and helps your child manage anxiety more effectively.