Panic Attacks In Children

Panic Attacks in Children

by Colin Eagle

Panic attacks in children are quite common, but they are often overlooked. Most of the time they go untreated because many adults tend to believe that children bear no responsibility, so therefore should not be developing stress. However, nothing could be further from the truth. It is an unfortunate reality that panic attacks occur in children. In children, panic attacks can interfere with their ability to make relationships, their schoolwork and a normal healthy development. For some children, it becomes so severe that they try to avoid certain situations for fear that an panic attack might occur. If left untreated, some children may start to show signs of self-destructive or even suicidal behaviour.


Children who have a fear of the dark are at an increased risk of going on to develop panic attacks and depression as adults. Manifestations of panic in children alters as a child grows, and it is a known fact that most chronic panic and mood disorders experienced by adults were at some point preceded by panic attacks as a child.

The first sign that your child may be experiencing panic attacks is withdrawal. If your child is constantly avoiding social situations, trying to get out of going to school, isolating themselves or not wanting to be separated from you, they may be dealing with panic attacks on a regular basis.

The second sign is that they may often seem sad and overstressed. If your child does not seem to laugh or play often, then they may be suffering from panic attacks. You should try to talk to them about their problems and how they feel. This allows them to feel better and teaches them that it is perfectly normal and okay to have these feelings.

The third sign is if they seem easily hurt or upset when told that they have done something wrong.

You should also note that many of the physical symptoms of panic attacks are the same in children as they are in adults.

These include high blood pressure and rapid heartbeat, sweating, chest pains, feeling dizzy and difficulty breathing.

These can lead to a multitude of other problems including stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, ulcers, weakness and shortness of breath.

Because the symptoms of panic attacks are the same in both children and adults, the treatments that are directed at adults are just as effective in children. If you think your child suffers from panic attacks, it is always best to see your doctor. Although this will mean they are usually prescribed medication, you should also try natural solutions as is recommended for an adult i.e. a healthy diet, regular exercise, a good sleeping pattern and breathing and relaxation techniques. As well as these treatments, psychotherapy is also available as a treatment option for panic attacks in children and they are highly effective. One natural technique to stop panic fast in children is cognitive behavioural therapy, which has been proven to work extremely well.

About the Author
 
Our aim is to offer advice and support to those who suffer from Panic Attacks or Anxiety Attacks. Our website, http://www.stoppanic.co.uk/ gives link to various Natural Treatments whilst we also offer a free weekly Newsletter.