Children & Adolescents with an anxiety disorder often consider the “what if?”, and ask a variety of questions to try to predict the outcome of every scenario. They are very concerned about the details of every situation and will often times try to eavesdrop on conversations in order to have all the “facts”. Children who experience anxiety have an increased risk of developing depression as a teenager, and this can result in a higher risk of developing long-term depression as an adult. If you believe your child is suffering from anxiety, contact your pediatrician, and if necessary give PTI a call.

Common Symptoms of Childhood Anxiety Include:

• Extreme and unrealistic fears about daily activities
• “What If” concerns that stretch into the future
• Excessive worrying about different situations
• Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, inability to unwind
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Perfectionism
• Disruptive at school
• Overwhelming need to break out of an uncomfortable situation