Anxiety in Young People

Anxiety disorders may make young people worried, anxious or have panic symptoms. Common anxiety problems are

• Separation Anxiety: fear of going to school, fear of being away from a parent,

• Simple Phobia: anxiety about certain things such as dogs or other animals,

• Social Phobia: fear of being in public scrutiny or making a fool of yourself in front of others,

• Panic Disorder with overwhelming anxiety attacks and physical symptoms as in adults, and

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder: a fear that something bad will happen or over worrying about small everyday things.

Anxiety disorders are common, affecting 3-5% of young people, and can cause significant distress and problems in development. For example, school avoidance, as a result of a young person having separation anxiety disorder, can cause major academic and social problems.