Anxiety in AdolescentsTory Engen

Types

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Panic Disorder

Causes

Deranged psychological profile

Trauma (PTSD)

Learned Behavior

Chemical Imbalance in brain

Poor Self-esteem

Genetics

Biochemistry

Environment

Family History

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Symptoms

Headaches

Stomach aches

Thoughts of being embarrassed or being rejected

Difficulty relaxing

Isolation from peers

Trembling voice

Crying

Screaming

Avoiding certain situations

Changes in heart rate

Sweaty palms

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Effects

Feelings of panic Flashbacks- (PTSD)

Brain cell damage

Aggression

Anger

Depression

Excessive worrying-Ex. sports, school

High stress levels

Self-consciousness

Low success outlook

Worried about people's expectations

Unwanted thoughts – (OCD) http://clearcutmedia.tv/shop/images/depression.jpg

Gastroinestinaldisorders

Headaches

Obesity

Heart Disease

Mood swings

Insomnia

Alcoholism

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Chronic pain

Fatigue

Low concentration

levels

Irritability

Muscle tension Increased risk for

suicide

Drug abuse

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Diagnoses

Diagnoses of Anxiety Disorders in Adolescents tends to be difficult

Based on numerous tests and evaluation

Diagnoses generally made by child psychologist or psychiatrist

Physical Exam-to rule out ulcers, asthma, thyroid problems

Observation and talking

Family medical history

Questions on intake of substances such as smoking and coffee

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Coping/Treatment

Facing and dealing with fears directly◦Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Relaxation techniques ◦Breathing and sleep exercises

Group therapy to increase confidence ◦Allows adolescents to share feelings and relate to

each other

Cognitive-behavioral Therapy- (CBT)◦Helps adolescents

sort through feelings

Drug therapy-antidepressants◦Helps allow

adolescents to deal with the high stress levels

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References

Compton, L. (2008). social anxiety disorder. RelayHealth. Mufson, M.J. (2006). Anxiety in children and teenagers.

Harvard: (Harvard)/Staywell. Inc. Sahley, B. (2007). ADULT -- TEEN A.D.D. MMRC Health

Educator Reports, 1-2. Retrieved from Alt HealthWatch database.

McNamara, D. (2003, September). Anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorders have many facets in youths: distinguish from ordinary anxiety., 31(9), 34.

Simon, H., & Zieve, D. (2009). ANXIETY DISORDERS. Anxiety Annual Report, 1-12. Retrieved from Health Source - Consumer Edition database.

Pictures Courtesy of Google Images