We see kids, teens (and, sometimes, parents) with anxiety on a daily basis at The Wise Family. But even though we see folks reporting anxiety all the time, a 2015 Child Mind Institute study reported that 80% of kids with a diagnosable anxiety disorder are not getting treatment.
We wonder…
Anxiety disorders actually affect one in eight children. And some amount of anxiety is considered a normal part of childhood, and the phases are usually temporary. But children who suffer from an anxiety disorder experience fear, nervousness, and shyness, and they start to avoid places and activities.
It is hard for parents to know which behaviors are the temporary kind, and which are the more serious anxiety-disorder-kind. We use a variety of assessments and impressions to make a diagnosis, and you can do some detective work on your own (we call that CSI of the MIND) by reading the article below, and watching this great video to pick up on some questions to ask, and some not-so-subtle clues that anxiety is something to consider.
Article: The Two Questions All Parents of Young Kids Should Ask Themselves
“Oh my gosh, my daughter just thinks Grace is amazing and I am so glad that she has someone to talk to that isn’t me! She is so happy after her sessions! Thank you.”
— Mom of 15 year old client“Our clinician has been a tremendous help with family issues and getting our children organized for success in life. Highly recommend her.”
— Mom of three young adults ages 20 – 24“Dr. Amy talks about moving children from being externally-driven to internally-driven…and she helps you get there!”
— Parent of 15-year-old daughter“Dr. Amy knows how to relate to children and make them feel comfortable. My son was shy in the beginning but Amy asked him a couple of questions about what he likes and immediately found a connection with him. He happily followed her into the office (just after a 3 min of conversation) and performed the test. He wasn’t nervous or scared and it’s because of her ability to relate to kids.
We had a great experience and he wants to go back! Thank you very much!”
— Dad of 5-year-old assessment client