More than Shyness: Identifying Social Anxiety Disorder
Identifying AnxietyOctober 2, 2018 12:23 pm
Everyone feels anxious sometimes. It’s very normal. In fact, anxiety has a useful purpose in our lives; it keeps us safe. When we’re anxious, our bodies set off a reaction called the flight-or-flight response, and this causes changes in our bodies… faster heartbeat, trembling hands, shallow breathing, focused thinking. These changes help us act quickly when we need to, to protect ourselves -like staying away from a wild animal!
Soothing Bedtime Worries
Managing AnxietySeptember 25, 2018 2:01 pm
Bedtime is a trigger for many kids. Unlike the rest of the day, bedtime is a time in which children are expected to be alone. In addition, bedtime is often when children slow down and tune into themselves and reflect on their day; as a result, this may be when they express concerns and worries or exhibit separation anxiety. Fears about going to bed, worries that seem only to appear at bedtime, attempts to sleep with parents, and pleas for a parent to stay until they fall asleep are common.
When Anxiety Causes Physical Symptoms
Identifying AnxietySeptember 21, 2018 8:05 am
“Mommy, I have a tummy ache.” It’s a sentence every parent will hear from their child sooner or later. Usually, with simple home care and rest, the tummy ache will quickly pass. But in some cases, stomachaches and other symptoms–such as frequent headaches, recurring nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, sweats and flushing–keep returning. Physical causes, from bacteria to viruses to food allergies or even lactose intolerance, are often the trigger. However, if the pediatrician has performed a thorough exam and found a child in good health, it’s possible that underlying anxiety is setting off the complaints.
