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Condition

Pediatric Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Key points about generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in children and teens

  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a serious mental health problem. A child with GAD has a lot of worry and fear that seems to have no real cause.
  • A child with GAD may worry about things such as future events, past behaviors and family matters.
  • The child may not realize his or her worry is more intense than the situation calls for
  • Generalized anxiety disorder is caused by both biological and environmental factors.
  • A mental health evaluation is needed to diagnose GAD.
  • Treatment includes therapy and medicines.
  • Untreated, chronic anxiety can lead to other serious problems such as depression, substance abuse and self-harm.
  • Treatment and family involvement can help reduce generalized anxiety disorder symptoms and improve your child's quality of life

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Frequently Asked Questions

Prevention and Risk Assessment

What is generalized anxiety disorder in children and teens?

What causes generalized anxiety disorder in a child or teen?

Which children and teens are at risk for generalized anxiety disorder?

Diagnosis

What are the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder in a child or teen?

How is generalized anxiety disorder diagnosed in a child or teen?

Treatment

How is generalized anxiety disorder treated in a child or teen?

How can I help prevent generalized anxiety disorder in my child or teen?

How can I help my child or teen live with generalized anxiety disorder?

When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?

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Anxiety Treatment at Children's National Hospital

The Anxiety Disorders Program is a specialized treatment clinic devoted to carefully assessing and effectively treating a wide range of anxiety disorders common among children and adolescents. Discover more about the treatments we offer.

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Providers Who Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder

PATIENT STORY

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Departments that Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder

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Program for Health Problems Related to Bullying

The Program for Health Problems Related to Bullying treats children and teens who are bullied, as well as those who bully others.

Psychology and Behavioral Health

In the Division of Psychology and Behavioral Health, our child psychologists and other mental health professionals work exclusively with children and teens, emphasizing patient and family-focused care.

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Anxiety Disorders Program

The Anxiety Disorders Program at Children's National Hospital is a specialized treatment clinic devoted to carefully assessing and effectively treating a wide range of anxiety disorders common among children and adolescents.