Specific Phobias and Young People
Fears are common and expected in childhood; however, for some children and teens, their fears can become very severe over time, and even develop into a phobia. A phobia is an intense and unreasonable fear of a specific object or situation.
Parenting Strategies for Anxiety
As a parent, you can help your child or teen learn techniques to manage their anxiety.
General Self-Help Strategies for Anxiety
There are some general strategies that anyone can use to help manage their anxiety. Although it is always a good idea to seek professional help if you have an anxiety disorder, especially in more severe cases, help is not always readily available. Even if you do decide to seek help, there are still a number of things that you can do on your own to better manage your anxiety.
Talking to Your Child or Teen About Anxiety
Children and teens often don’t recognize their anxiety for what it is. Instead, they may think there is something “wrong” with them. Therefore, the first step is to teach your child about anxiety and how to recognize it.
Anxiety and Panic
It is important to remember that some anxiety is normal. We cannot get rid of all anxiety in our lives. Anxiety is a problem when it gets in the way. We might avoid things or change the way we do things because we feel anxious.
Anxiety Disorders
Learn more about anxiety disorders. All of these disorders affect the way you experience anxiety or fear in your life. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (or GAD), panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (or OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (or PTSD), social anxiety disorder and specific phobias.
Depression, Anxiety, Alcohol and Other Drugs
We all use substances, many of which affect our mood. Whether we eat something that gives us pleasure (such as chocolate), enjoy a glass of wine to enhance a meal, or take a prescribed medication to control pain from a recent injury, the use of substances is an accepted part of life.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Worry is a normal reaction to a stressful or troubling event, and it usually goes away on its own. But what happens when the worry doesn’t go away? Some people worry all the time—even when everything is okay. They might feel like their worry is out of control or feel like they just can't stop their worried thoughts.
