Anxiety and kids

Gentle remedies FOR ANXIETY

• Bach Rescue Remedy Kids

  Give 2 drops of this alcohol-free formula directly on the tongue during high stress, or put 2 drops into a water bottle to be sipped throughout the day

• 5-HTP and L-theanine

  Check with your health care provider to see if these naturally calming amino acids may be an appropriate therapy for your child.

Source: Doni Wilson, ND.

When to do More

Consider a professional consultation if you or your pediatrician think your child's behavior (for his age) warrants special attention.

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

  Repetitive obsessive thoughts, such as being contaminated with dirt; compulsions, such as repetitive hand washing

• Panic disorder

  Panic attacks, very rapid heartbeat, feeling dizzy or nauseated, a sense of impending doom

• Phobia

  Intense fear of something (for example, heights, dogs, clowns); extreme avoidance of situations where it might be encountered

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

  Flashbacks of a traumatic event; extreme irritability; avoiding reminders of the trauma

• Separation anxiety

  Consistently, chronically inconsolable upon separation from a loved one

Source: Anandhi Narasimhan, MD.