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
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?
Meet the Providers Who Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Departments that Treat Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences
Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Children's National offers assessment, diagnosis and care for children and teens with behavioral, emotional and developmental disorders. From a variety of therapy options to medication management and support for the whole family, our healthcare providers offer solutions to children’s mental health issues in inpatient and outpatient settings.