Now that I've specified which anxiety disorder, what are some methods that may help?
1. Redirect thoughts from "what is the worst case scenario" to "what is most likely to happen in this scenario" Since children who suffer from GAD typically focus on the negative, worst possible outcomes, changing the tone of their worries to a more logical outcome can be reassuring. For example, if a child is anxious about not being picked up from school, redirect their thinking by asking them what they would do in that situation, which would usually be to go back to their teacher, who would then call their parent. By changing the source of their anxiety from the worst case, sometimes irrational and unlikely situation, children will gradually be able to shift this thinking independently. 2. Focus on strengths and achievements, offer praise for good work Children with GAD are often described as perfectionists, who stress about performance, grades, athletic ability, etc. Knowing this, offering children with GAD praise for good work, offering positive guidance along the way, and encouraging pedagogy may help ease their anxiety regarding school performance. In regard to athletics (or other hobbies like dance, painting, music, etc.), providing a relaxed and positive environment could help children thrive. 3. avoid suggestive and leading questions Anxiety can be intensified when provoked, so it is important to recognize what type of language is used around children managing GAD. For example, shifting prodding questions like "are you nervous for your test?" or "are you scared for your big dance recital?" to "how do you feel about your test?" and "are you excited for your recital this weekend?". Simply rewording questions not only leads to a more positively interpreted question, but does not introduce the child to the idea that they should be nervous or scared when they hadn't previously. 4. keep the anticipatory period as short as possible For children who are anxious about every day things like school, performances, athletic events, doctors appointments, etc., mentioning impending events to early may leave too much time for children to think about it. For example, mentioning an afternoon doctors appointment in the morning, may lead to perseverating thoughts that can turn into anxiety. Refraining from mentioning little things until closer to the time can help by reducing the time kids have to spend thinking about it. 5. Find outlets that help ease anxiety Try different methods of calming activities to help children in the event that they do feel anxious. At home, meditation, yoga or aerobic exercise may prove beneficial for re-centering focus and calming out of control thoughts. In a school setting, giving children an easy escape to calm down can prove successful. For example, giving the child a chance to leave the room to wash their face may be enough to calm them, and giving them a discreet sign that they need time (like a brightly colored piece of paper they can place on their desk or yours when they're feeling stressed) can make that exit easier.