Anxiety & Depression

Anxiety and depression affect about 14% of American children today. At Advanced Pediatrics, the group of premier pediatric care specialists offers thoughtful and attentive mental health care for young patients and their families. If your child’s struggling with anxiety and depression or another mental or behavioral issue, call the Vienna, Virginia, office or click the online scheduling link to arrange your child’s appointment now.

Anxiety & Depression Q & A

What are anxiety and depression?

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health disorders affecting children in America.

Anxiety

Anxiety disorders cause frequent anxious and worried feelings that lead to problems in daily life. There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, specific phobias, and separation anxiety disorder.

Depression

Depression is strong sadness that negatively affects thoughts, feelings, and behavior. Major depressive disorder is the most common type. It most often starts in late teens or early 20s, but an increasing number of children experience depression today.

Depression and anxiety frequently happen together in children. For example, three-quarters of children with depression also have anxiety. About half of children with depression have a behavioral diagnosis, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

What are the signs of anxiety and depression?

Anxiety and depression can cause notable changes in your child’s behavior. The signs of each disorder vary, but some symptoms to watch out for include:

Excessive worrying
Being fearful about being away from you
Panic attacks
Persistent sadness
Feelings of hopelessness
Avoiding social interactions
Disinterest in activities they normally find fun
Energy changes
Eating habit changes
Poor concentration
Sleep changes
Self-injury
Preoccupation with death
Thoughts of suicide

Anxiety and depression may share symptoms with other disorders. For example, difficulty concentrating is common in both depression and ADHD.

How are anxiety and depression diagnosed?

Anxiety and depression can be diagnosed by utilizing a variety of methods including but not limited to; standardized screening measures, history recall, data gathering, and neuropsychological testing. A physical exam can rule physical causes out.

The neuropsychological evaluation comprehensively assesses strengths and weaknesses in many areas. This series of tests can help diagnose mental disorders like depression and anxiety and find the cause of behavioral issues.

Further, neuropsychological assessment can help pediatric care providers develop specific treatment recommendations.

How are anxiety and depression treated?

Your child receives a customized treatment plan. They may need psychological counseling to help them retrain unhealthy thought patterns and learn effective coping skills.

Some children with depression and anxiety may benefit from medication. Research proves that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac® and Zoloft® are effective for depression and anxiety in children, particularly when paired with therapy.

Advanced Pediatrics also offers parenting classes focusing on topics like mental health to help you understand and help your child effectively.