Pediatric Anxiety
Childhood Anxiety
Much like adults, children and teenagers have worries and fears. Whether it's fearful of heights or worried about the first day at a new school, all are valid. At times, worries and fears have the possibility to turn into anxiety. When anxiety affects a young child or teenager it often leads to school avoidance, withdrawal from family activities, or fear to engage in social activities.
If you notice any behavioral changes in your child, CHRISTUS Health can help. We have an anxiety clinic that offers evaluations, diagnoses, and treatments for a variety of anxiety disorders.
About Our Anxiety Clinic
CHRISTUS Health offers comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and evidence-based treatment for a wide variety of anxiety disorders in children and adolescents between the ages of 6-18. Our evaluations and treatments include:
- Psychological evaluation
- School consultation and assistance with Section 504 Plan
- School consultation
- Communication with PCP
- Child and family cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Common Pediatric Anxiety Disorders
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is common in children and teens who have excessive anxiety or worry over everyday events. It can last over an extensive amount of time affecting many areas of a child's and teenager's life.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder affects a child or teen who fears being in a social setting. It can negatively impact many areas of their life where they isolate themselves in school, family gatherings and activities.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is common in babies and toddlers, but it can also affect children between the ages of seven and nine. Children with separation anxiety are prone to feel extreme homesickness or fear that something bad is going to happen to their parents or caregiver.
Selective Mutism
Selective mutism affects children who refuse to speak in situations where they are expected to or necessary. Oftentimes, children with selective mutism show no signs of emotion, expression and avoid eye contact.