Children Panic Attacks

In todays modern world children have to endure more stresses on a day to day basis than ever before, and often children are unable to cope with the stress and anxieties that are put upon them. As a result of this, anxiety disorders and panic attacks are one of the most common mental health issues affecting our children today.

Symptoms of a panic attack can be any or all of the following symptoms :-

* A pounding heart * Trembling

It is not exactly clear what causes people to have panic attacks, though they often occur when a person has had changes in their life. They could also be due to a chemical imbalance.

What should you do during an attack ?

It is best to accept that the panic attack is embarrassing and unpleasant. It is best not to try and fight it but to accept that it is happening. If you try and fight it you may become more fearful and feel more out of control and this could make the attack worse. Try to remember that it will finish and it won't kill you.

If not recognized and treated, panic disorder and its complications can be devastating. Panic attacks can interfere with a child's or adolescent's relationships, schoolwork, and normal development. Children and adolescents with panic disorder may begin to feel anxious most of the time, even when they are not having panic attacks. Some begin to avoid situations where they fear a panic attack may occur, or situations where help may not be available. For example, a child may be reluctant to go to school or be separated from his or her parents. In severe cases, the child or adolescent may be afraid to leave home. This pattern of avoiding certain places or situations is called "agoraphobia." Some children and adolescents with panic disorder can develop severe depression and may be at risk of suicidal behavior. As an attempt to decrease anxiety, some adolescents with panic disorder will use alcohol or drugs.

Panic disorder in children can be difficult to diagnose. This can lead to many visits to physicians and multiple medical tests which are expensive and potentially painful. When properly evaluated and diagnosed, panic disorder usually responds well to treatment. Children and adolescents with symptoms of panic attacks should first be evaluated by their family physician or pediatrician.

Treatments are now available. With new techniques the child may also learn new ways to control anxiety or panic attacks when they occur. With treatment, the panic attacks can usually be stopped. Early treatment can prevent the complications of panic disorder such as agoraphobia, depression and substance abuse.