Childhood Panic Disorder

First of all, remember that only a professional can make a diagnosis. When in doubt, the ideal is to consult a trusted psychologist.

When a child feels persistent worry and a great fear of losing his life or suffering some kind of illness, it may be a case of panic disorder.

In this article, we’ll discuss what you need to know about childhood panic disorder and how to handle it. 

What is panic disorder?

Panic disorder is an intense feeling of malaise that impacts both emotionally and physically. The cause can be a real or fictitious threat and it usually generates, above all, a feeling of loss of control over oneself. This generates significant changes in children’s behavior.

Panic attacks can be of short duration. But the physical consequences can stay longer in the body. They can range from tremors to a seemingly insignificant headache.

On the other hand, even if the crisis has passed, the child continues to feel fear and a lot of anxiety when thinking that the crisis could happen again.

Panic is an unpleasant sensation that presents itself abruptly and violently when faced with a risk or a dangerous situation.

When panic disorder develops, it commonly appears in adolescence, but it can also appear in childhood. In this sense, anyone is liable to suffer a panic attack.

Causes of Panic Disorder

Panic disorder does not have a specific cause, but a set of variables (both external and internal) that can interfere and trigger its appearance and, consequently, development. On the other hand, each case is different and it is difficult to establish generalizations at first glance.

However, individuals who are under intense stress, living in toxic environments, among other difficulties, are more likely to develop a panic disorder. But pay attention! This is not a rule.

It is also worth noting that, in children, it is considered that panic disorder may be related to:

• Forced separation from parents.
• Stage fright.
• Insecurity.
• A phobia (of animal, height, etc.).
• Fear of imaginary issues (which the child may have seen on television, heard or read somewhere, etc.).

Panic Disorder Symptoms

Panic disorder causes the body to somatize the stress produced by being in constant tension. In this sense, the following symptoms appear:

• Numbness of the extremities (sleeping sensation).
• Increased heart rate.
• Feeling of pressure in the chest.

• Difficulty breathing.
• Sensation of suffocation or chills.
• Nausea, dizziness.
• Hallucinations.
• Excessive sweating.
• Cramps.
• Tremors.
• Fainting.

It is noteworthy that the symptoms mentioned above may be similar to other diseases, such as anxiety.

Panic disorder makes it difficult for people to develop properly, regardless of age. In the case of children, it can cause poor academic performance and social isolation.

Therefore, it is recommended to seek professional help in order to improve the quality of life. The psychologist will not only listen to the concerns, but also provide both (parents and children) with the tools necessary to progressively minimize the impact of the damage caused by the disorder.

How Can Parents Help When Children Have Panic Disorder?

After the professional confirms the diagnosis of panic disorder, it is essential to follow their indications and try not to question the child about their fears and concerns if not necessary.

The idea is to provide security so that the child feels valued, supported and respected. This involves not ridiculing or labeling the child as “fearful, cowardly or silly.” On the contrary, we must show her at all times that, although she feels fear, she can gradually overcome this feeling.

One should not belittle the child’s reactions or ignore the importance of the reason for the fear because that will not help to end the problem.

The goal of parents (or guardians) should be to create an environment of tranquility and confidence for the child. It is important to pay attention to her needs and get involved in the therapeutic process in order to offer a better quality of life and well-being.

Our advice:

1. Avoid negative judgments and criticism. 
2. In the face of a panic attack, it is necessary to remain calm and:
   • Don’t fight.
   • Not to blame.
   • Do not put pressure on the child to “let go” or “face” the fear.
   • Do not repress (as it is counterproductive to ask not to cry, scream or shake).
3. You need to keep your voice normal (no need for screaming) and be kind.
4. If necessary, it is a good idea to hold the child’s hand and do deep breathing exercises with them until they feel calmer.
5. It is necessary to establish eye contact and show the child that he is not alone.
6. A hug can help to calm down.
7. Follow the child without asking about the fear.
8. It is recommended to keep the child busy with activities that awaken their creativity and produce satisfaction.
9. Prevent the child from watching violent programs that instill fears or concerns.