Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a condition where children and teenagers feel excessive worry about everyday things. This anxiety can be about anything – school, friendships, or even small tasks like tidying their room. For parents, it can be hard to understand why your child feels so anxious, especially when the situation seems ordinary.
If your child has GAD, they might worry much more than other kids their age. For instance, they may feel the need to study long hours, even when they are already doing well. They might feel like they need to be perfect, fearing any mistake. This constant worry can become overwhelming for both you and your child.
Recognising the Symptoms of Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Children with Generalised Anxiety Disorder often show signs in both their thoughts and behaviour. You might notice your child:
- Worrying about multiple things at once, whether it’s school, friendships, or hobbies.
- Focusing too much on getting perfect grades or performing well in activities.
- Feeling like they will fail, no matter how much effort they put in.
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Along with these emotional signs, GAD can cause physical symptoms. These can include headaches, stomach aches, and even exhaustion from the constant worry. Some children might become irritable, while others may seem restless or have trouble sleeping.
As a parent, it’s important to remember that these worries are very real to your child. It’s not something they can just “snap out of”. Being supportive and patient can make a big difference in how they cope.
How is Generalised Anxiety Disorder Diagnosed?
It’s normal for children to feel anxious from time to time, but with Generalised Anxiety Disorder, the worry lasts much longer. To receive a diagnosis, a child must show consistent symptoms for at least six months. The anxiety isn’t linked to one specific event but spreads across many areas of life.
If you suspect your child might have GAD, it’s a good idea to speak with their doctor. A professional can help determine if their anxiety is part of a bigger issue. Some signs that may point to GAD include:
- Difficulty calming down or relaxing.
- Trouble concentrating on tasks.
- Muscle tension or complaints about being tired.
- Quick temper or irritability.
It’s worth noting that GAD is more commonly diagnosed in teenagers, and girls are more likely to experience it than boys. However, younger children can also develop this form of anxiety.
Treatment Options for Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Fortunately, Generalised Anxiety Disorder is treatable. The most common approach is therapy, often combined with medication if necessary. One effective therapy for GAD is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This method helps children understand their anxiety and teaches them practical skills to manage it.
CBT usually involves a technique called exposure therapy. This method helps children face their fears gradually. The therapist starts with something small that makes your child anxious and works their way up to more stressful situations. Over time, your child learns how to handle these challenges without feeling overwhelmed.
Another key part of CBT is teaching children to change their thought patterns. They learn how their thinking contributes to their anxiety and discover ways to shift these thoughts. It can be incredibly empowering for children to realise that they have some control over how they feel.
How Parents Can Support Their Child with Generalised Anxiety Disorder
As a parent, your role in supporting your child through Generalised Anxiety Disorder is vital. Your child’s therapist will likely involve you in the process, encouraging you to practise techniques with them at home. This could be as simple as helping them apply the skills they learned in therapy or offering gentle reassurance when they feel anxious.
It’s also important to create a calm, supportive environment. Children with GAD often feel pressure to be perfect, so it’s helpful to remind them that it’s okay not to have all the answers or perform perfectly all the time. Little gestures of patience and understanding can go a long way.
In some cases, medication may be needed. Certain antidepressants, like SSRIs, are often prescribed for GAD. If these don’t work, other anti-anxiety medications may be tried. Your child’s doctor will guide you through this process if needed.
Looking Ahead
Managing Generalised Anxiety Disorder takes time, but with the right support, children can learn to cope with their anxiety. If you think your child might have GAD, early intervention is key. Talking to a healthcare provider can help you get the guidance needed to move forward.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Many families are going through similar experiences, and with understanding and the right tools, you can help your child navigate through their anxiety toward a brighter future.
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