Anxiety & Depression

Kids experience mental health challenges like anxiety and depression just like adults, but the signs may be more difficult to recognize. With a team of board-certified pediatricians and nurse practitioners specializing in complex mental and behavioral health concerns, One World Pediatrics in Longwood, Florida, provides the expert care your child deserves. Call or schedule an appointment online today if your child experiences signs of anxiety, depression, or both.

What are anxiety and depression?

Anxiety and depression can affect your child’s mood, thoughts, and behaviors. Each condition has characteristics that can disrupt your child’s life and make it harder to enjoy activities, connect with others, or focus on tasks.

Anxiety

Anxiety can cause worry, fear, or nervousness about everyday situations, manifesting in generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other anxiety disorders.

Depression

Depression leads to sadness or a lack of interest in things your child used to enjoy. It can also affect your child’s sleep, appetite, and energy levels.

What are the signs of anxiety and depression in children and adolescents?

Anxiety and depression can affect children and adolescents differently than adults. Young people often express their emotions by acting out or showing aggression, or they may struggle to describe how they're feeling. Changes in school performance or social withdrawal can also signal a problem. 

Common signs of anxiety in children and adolescents include:

• Excessive worry or fear about everyday situations
• Avoiding certain places or activities
• Restlessness or feeling "on edge"
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or mood swings
• Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
• Physical symptoms, such as headaches and abdominal pain
• Clinginess or needing constant reassurance

Common signs of depression include:

• Sadness or hopelessness
• Lost interest in activities your child used to enjoy
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep pattern changes
• Low energy
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Discussing death or self-harm

If your child shows any of these symptoms, the One World Pediatrics team specializes in complex mental health needs. The team provides compassionate care that supports your child’s mental well-being and helps them manage their symptoms.

How are anxiety and depression treated in adolescents?

Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes may help relieve anxiety and depression symptoms in children and adolescents. Your child’s individualized treatment plan depends on their symptoms and may include:

• Medication management with antidepressants or antianxiety medications
• Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Relaxation exercises, breathing techniques, and mindfulness

The team works with your child and family to relieve anxiety and depression symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Call One World Pediatrics today or schedule a consultation online to help your child navigate anxiety and depression.