Importance of early intervention for anxiety disorders
Published 4:40 am, Saturday, March 29, 2014
With treatment and support, youth and young adults can learn how to manage the symptoms of an anxiety disorder and function well.
Anxiety disorders are the No. 1 mental illness in our country, followed by depression and substance abuse. The median age for the onset of anxiety is 11 years old. In other words, half the people will have their first anxiety episode before age 11 and the other half after that age. In fact, half of all mental disorders began by age 14 and three quarters by age 24.
Research has shown that children and youth with untreated anxiety disorders are at higher risk of performing poorly in school, missing out on important social experiences, experiencing early parenthood, and engaging in substance abuse.
Anxiety disorders also often co-occur with other disorders such as depression, eating disorders, and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder). In addition, anxiety disorders can make it difficult for some young people to be assertive or make their own decisions. Some young people develop ways of reducing their anxiety that cause further problems. For example, people with phobias may avoid anxiety provoking situations. This avoidance behavior reduces their anxiety in the short term but can limit their lives in significant ways.
Similarly, people with compulsions reduce their anxiety by repetitive acts such as washing hands. The compulsions then become problems in themselves.
Because of these long-term consequences, it is very important that anxiety disorders are recognized early and young people get appropriate professional help.
People struggling with anxiety can get help from their primary physician normally who may prescribe some medication and you will likely benefit from talking with a professional counselor.
Ron Trusler is CEO of
Central Plains Center.