If you have kids of your own, anxiety screening might not be high on your list of worries at the moment. If you’re concerned about their future, though, it’s important to think about their mental health while they’re still young. Take anxiety screening, for example; experts suggest that parents have kids between the ages of 8 and 10 get checked out because there’s evidence that early intervention can make all the difference in helping prevent the disorder from becoming full-blown later on in life. Here are some more reasons why mental health screenings are so important for children who are under age 13.
Early intervention can prevent future mental health issues
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1% of the population. Experts say that screening for anxiety at age 8 can help identify those who are at risk for developing an anxiety disorder, so that they can get early intervention and treatment. Early intervention is important because it can prevent the development of more serious mental health issues later on in life.
How Anxiety Is Identified
Anxiety is typically identified by feeling fear, worry, and uneasiness. Physical symptoms may also be present, such as a racing heart, sweating, and trembling. If left untreated, anxiety can lead to more serious problems.
That’s why experts recommend that kids be screened for anxiety at age 8. By doing so, we can help identify those who are at risk and provide them with the resources they need to manage their anxiety.
How Early Intervention Happens
Early intervention is key when it comes to anxiety disorders. By screening for anxiety at age 8, experts hope to catch the disorder early and provide treatment that can help prevent it from developing into a more serious problem. Early intervention can happen in a number of ways, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. The sooner anxiety is caught, the better the chances are for successful treatment.
Natural Ways to Calm Down Anxious Children
When it comes to anxious children, parents often feel helpless. But there are some natural ways you can help your child calm down. You may want to encourage him or her to drink herbal tea (chamomile is especially soothing), go outside and play in the sun, or take a relaxing bath with lavender-scented bath salts. If you have a hammock in your backyard, your child might enjoy lying in it and looking up at the sky.
How Parents Can Help Their Children Overcome Their Fears
It can be difficult for parents to watch their children suffer from anxiety, but there are ways to help. First, it’s important to understand what your child is going through. Secondly, you can provide support and encouragement. Third, you can teach your child healthy coping mechanisms. Fourth, you can model positive behavior. Finally, you can seek professional help if necessary.