Like other medical conditions, anxiety disorders tend to be chronic unless properly treated. Most kids find that they need professional guidance to successfully manage and overcome their anxiety. And while family support is important to the recovery process, it is not the cure. (Also beware of any product or program that guarantees a cure or is peddled online or in TV infomercials.) Many licensed mental health professionals have the proper training, education, and experience to properly diagnose and treat your child.
In addition, research shows that children with untreated anxiety disorders are at higher risk to perform poorly in school, to have less developed social skills, and to be more vulnerable to substance abuse. That’s why it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
Your child deserves a future that is free from the limitations of anxiety.
Most children see signs of improvement within two to six weeks when receiving proper treatment. If you don’t see progress after this time, talk to your child’s doctor or therapist about other options or adjusting the medication dosage level.
If the doctor or therapist is unwilling to try a different treatment method or won’t take the time to listen to your concerns, find another mental health professional who will.