Remember that only a professional can make a diagnosis. When in doubt, it is best to consult your trusted psychologist.
When a child experiences a persistent restlessness and a great concern about losing his life or suffering some type of injury, it may be a case of panic disorder.
Here's what you need to know about panic disorder in childhood and how you can act on it.
What is panic disorder?
Panic disorder is an intense discomfort that affects both emotionally and physically. The cause can be a real or fictitious threat and usually generates, above all, a sense of loss of control over oneself. This generates significant changes in the behavior of children.
Panic attacks may have a short duration but the physical consequences may remain longer in the body. It can be treated from tremors to a seemingly insignificant headache.
On the other hand, even if the crisis has passed, the child continues to feel fear and will feel great anxiety when thinking that the crisis may recur.
Panic is an unpleasant sensation that occurs abruptly and violently in the face of a risk or dangerous situation.
Although panic disorder usually develops, usually in adolescence, it can also suffer from childhood. In this sense, anyone is vulnerable.
Causes of panic disorder
The panic disorder does not have a specific cause but a set of variables (both external and internal) that can affect and trigger its appearance and development. On the other hand, each case is different and it is difficult to establish generalizations at a glance.
However, those individuals who are under excessive stress, toxic environments, among other difficulties , are more likely to develop a panic disorder.
It should be noted that, in children, it is considered that panic disorder may be related to:
The forced separation of their parents.
Scenic panic.
Insecurity .
A phobia (to an animal, to heights, etc.).
Fear of imaginary issues (which could have seen on television, heard or read, etc.).
- Panic disorder in children.
This is why it is important to keep kids away from things they are scared of.
Some parents or siblings brings e.g toy the child is scared of to scare, persuade and make a child do things the child is not willing to do.
Symptoms of panic disorder
Panic disorder causes the body to somatize the stress caused by staying in constant tension. In this sense, the following symptoms are evident:
Numbness of the extremities (sensation of numbness).
increase of cardiac frecuency.
Sensation of pressure in the thorax.
Difficulty breathing.
Hot flushes or chills.
Nausea, dizziness
Hallucinations
Sweating
Cramps.
Tremors
Fainting.
It should be noted that the aforementioned symptoms can be similar to other conditions such as anxiety .
Panic disorder hinders the normal development of people , regardless of age. In the case of children, it can lead to low school performance and social isolation.
Therefore it is recommended to request professional help and seek to improve their quality of life. The psychologist will not only listen to your concerns but will also provide both (parents and child) with the necessary tools to progressively minimize the impact of the ravages caused by the disorder.
How can parents help when there is panic disorder?
Once the professional has confirmed the diagnosis of panic disorder will be essential to follow their instructions and try not to question the child about their fears and concerns if it is not necessary.
The idea is to provide security so that they feel they are valued, supported and respected. This implies that we should not make fun of them or label them as "fearful, cowardly, stupid", far from it. On the contrary, we must let them know at all times that, although they feel fear, they can overcome it , little by little.
Children with panic disorder require affection and understanding.
Do not underestimate their reactions or downplay the reason for thier fear because this will not help make the problem go away.
The objective of the parents (or guardians) must be to generate an atmosphere of calm and trust around the child. It is important that attention be paid to their needs and we get involved in the therapeutic process in order to provide them with a better quality of life and wellbeing.
Advice
Judgments and negative criticism should be avoided.
In the panic of children, you have to stay calm and,
Do not scold them.
Do not blame them.
Do not pressure them to "let go" or "face" fear.
Do not repress them (since it is counterproductive to ask them not to cry, shout or tremble).
You have to maintain a normal tone of voice (no need to shout at them) and be friendly.
If necessary, it is a good idea to take them by the hand and do deep breathing exercises with them until they feel calmer.
You have to establish eye contact and let them know that you are not alone.
A hug can help calm them down.
Avoid watching violent programs that instill fear or worry.
It is recommended to keep the child occupied in activities that awaken their creativity and that produce satisfaction.
Avoid watching violent programs that instill fear or worry.
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