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Did you know that anxiety disorders are the most common type of mental illness in the United States? According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, these disorders affect approximately 40 million people age 18 and older.
Children also develop anxiety disorders. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America also noted the following:
As you can see, not only is this a big problem in children, affecting roughly 12.5 percent, but it can lead to a variety of additional concerns.
Knowing the symptoms of childhood panic attacks will help ensure your child gets the help they need.
As a parent, it is important to take note of any symptoms that suggest the presence of a panic attack. In some cases, it may appear that a child is having a panic attack, but in all actuality they are simply having a bad day. Conversely, there are times when this is the exact problem. It is particularly important to track how often the attacks happen. If this appears to be a trend, there is a good chance your child is dealing with panic attacks. Know that there is help available to your child. Call us toll free at for a free consultation.
What does a Panic Attack or Disorder Look Like?
If you don’t know the answer to this question, you are not alone. Many people want nothing more than to do what is best for their child, however, they don’t have the knowledge to pinpoint this condition and determine which type of treatment is best.
It is important to know what a panic attack or disorder looks like.
Note: panic disorder does not always look the same in children as adults. The reason for this is that most children report the physical symptoms of the attack, not the psychological ones.
Here is the one word you must become familiar with: unpredictability. Does your child become frightened in a particular situation, such as when meeting a new person? If so, this may not be the sign of a panic attack, but instead a phobia.
Panic attacks can cause a lot of trouble for a child, both at home and in other aspects of their life, such as at school. Your child does not have to struggle with this alone. Call for help today.
Now that you know the basics of child panic attacks, it is time to take a closer look at the many symptoms that often times accompany this disorder. The more you learn about these symptoms, the easier it becomes to focus in on the problem and find a solution.
No two children are exactly the same. For this reason, no two children with panic disorder are going to react in an identical manner. That being said, there are a number of symptoms that often times present themselves. These include but are not limited to the following:
Unpredictable episodes of fear that only last a short period of time. Remember this: panic attacks reach their peak after 10 minutes.
Episodes accompanied by intense physical symptoms, such as: difficulty breathing, chest pains, fast heart rate, choking sensation, dizziness, nausea, sweating, and cold or hot flashes.
Episodes accompanied by psychological symptoms, such as: fear of losing control, fear of dying, and the sensation of being detached from reality.
Concerns regarding future panic attacks and how they will make them feel.
Fear of being put into a situation that could lead to a panic attack, such as crowded areas.
Inability to explain the behavior. Adults don’t often times have this symptom, but children typically do. Children with panic disorder are not likely to be able to explain why they feel a certain way.
Experimentation with substance abuse. Some children search for ways to deal with panic disorder on their own, which is why they turn to drugs or alcohol. Not only does this add another problem to the mix, but substance abuse can actually worsen panic attack symptoms.
If you believe your child is suffering from anxiety and panic attacks, they should see a professional counselor. Call to connect with a counselor today.
Some people are under the belief that panic disorder cannot be treated. Fortunately, this is not true. There are many options to consider, including the following:
Along with the above, there are medicines that have been proven effective in the treatment of panic disorder. While none of these have been approved specifically for panic disorder in children, the following are often times prescribed:
Antidepressants, such as Lexapro, Paxil, and Prozac.
Benzodiazepines, such a Xanax, Klonopin, and Ativan.
There are many different types of panic attack treatments that can help your child, and that can be confusing. Let us help you make sense of it all. Call today.
As noted by the National Institute of Mental Health, “anxiety is a normal reaction to stress.” While this can be helpful to the body at times, it can also lead to a panic attack.
Just the same as adults, children can suffer from a variety of anxiety disorders, including panic attacks. As a parent, you should learn as much as possible about this condition. This way, if your child goes down this path, you will be in position to provide assistance and seek the best possible treatment.