7 nonpharma approaches to treat mild anxiety disorders

December 24, 2019

For children who have milder forms of anxiety disorders, the clinician can use nonpharmaceutical treatment options to treat. Here are 7 approaches that can be used to mitigate the effects of a mild anxiety disorder.

Establish regular routines for the child.

Make sure the child gets sufficient sleep.

Prepare child for changes in routines.

Don’t allow parental anxiety to overwhelm the child.

Educate parents that childhood should not be “stress-free.”

Instruct children on positive self-talk and using visual imagery.

Suggest targeted activities to decrease anxiety symptoms, such as art therapy, going for a walk, reading, listening to music, meditation, playing with an animal, playing an instrument, journal writing, getting a massage, swinging in a hammock, or doing a puzzle.