Anxiety Disorders

What can parents do?

If parents or other caregivers notice repeated symptoms of an anxiety disorder in their child or adolescent, they should: <P> <UL> <LI>Talk with the child's health care provider. He or she can help to determine whether the symptoms are caused by an anxiety disorder or by some other condition and can also provide a referral to a mental health professional. <LI>Look for a mental health professional trained in working with children and adolescents, who has used cognitive-behavioral or behavior therapy and has prescribed medications for this disorder, or has cooperated with a physician who does. <LI>Get accurate information from libraries, hotlines, or other sources. <LI>Ask questions about treatments and services. <LI>Talk with other families in their communities. <LI>Find family network organizations. </UL><P> People who are not satisfied with the mental health care they receive should discuss their concerns with the provider, ask for information, and/or seek help from other sources.