However, the disorders often go unrecognized and most go untreated. Common signs of anxiety disorders in children include excessive worrying about ordinary activities, such as going to school or summer camp, taking a test or performing in sports. Physical symptoms can include palpitations, sweating, trembling, stomachache or headache. Avoidance of certain situations perceived by the child as sources of anxiety also can occur, and social withdrawal can result. These disorders are properly recognized through a careful evaluation that includes direct examination of the child, a parent interview and a collection of past history.
Anxiety disorders cause significant suffering and functional impairment in affected children.
Some suffer from these disorders into adulthood. Early treatment may help prevent future mental health problems, including suicide attempts. Researchers used four criteria to select participants for the study, including a clinician-rated scale developed for the study to assess symptoms of the targeted disorders. The participants underwent several weeks of extended evaluation, which included supportive psychotherapy. Only children who did not adequately improve at the end of that period entered the medication study.