7 hallmark features of anxiety disorders
Affecting between 15% to 20% of children and adolescents, anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric condition in pediatrics. The impact can be significant with difficulties in social and academic functioning as well as increased risk for other mental health concerns. However, it can be difficult for a clinician to differentiate between anxiety and an anxiety disorder. Here are 7 signs to help make the diagnosis.
Affecting between 15% to 20% of children and adolescents, anxiety disorders are the most prevalent psychiatric condition in pediatrics. The impact can be significant with difficulties in social and academic functioning as well as increased risk for other mental health concerns. However, it can be difficult for a clinician to differentiate between anxiety and an anxiety disorder. Here are 7 signs to help make the diagnosis.
Hypervigilance
Reactivity to novel stimuli or changes in stimuli
Heightened sensitivity to a threat
Avoidant coping behavior
Somatic complaints (eg, stomachache and restlessness)
Catastrophic reactions
Parental accommodation (ie, parents enable avoidant behaviors)