Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Children: Signs, Support & Resources

Authored by: The DrSensory Editorial Team

Reviewed by: 🛡️ DrSensory Clinical Review Board

Last updated: June 2025

All medical content on this page has been reviewed and approved by licensed Doctors on the DrSensory Clinical Review Board. Our reviewers follow strict editorial standards and ensure alignment with current APTA guidelines, evidence-based practice, and orthopedic rehabilitation protocols.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) in Children

Signs, Causes, and Developmental Support for Families

What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Children?

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition that causes persistent and excessive worry about a wide range of everyday situations. While it’s normal for children to worry occasionally, those with GAD experience anxiety that is chronic, hard to control, and often out of proportion to the situation.

GAD can affect a child’s ability to focus in school, engage socially, sleep well, and enjoy daily life. Fortunately, with the right support, children can learn to manage their anxiety and thrive.

Signs & Symptoms of GAD in Children

Children with GAD often appear unusually worried or stressed—even when there’s no obvious reason. Symptoms can be emotional, behavioral, or physical:

Emotional and Cognitive Signs

  • Excessive worry about school, friendships, health, or future events
  • Perfectionism or fear of making mistakes
  • Feeling overwhelmed or mentally “stuck”

Behavioral Signs

  • Avoiding new or unfamiliar situations
  • Reassurance-seeking (“Will everything be okay?”)
  • Difficulty making decisions due to fear of consequences

Physical Symptoms

  • Headaches, stomachaches, or fatigue
  • Muscle tension
  • Trouble falling or staying asleep

These symptoms often last 6 months or more and significantly interfere with a child’s daily functioning.

What Causes GAD in Children?

There is no single cause of GAD. It usually results from a combination of:

  • Genetics: A family history of anxiety or mood disorders
  • Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine
  • Personality & Temperament: Children who are highly sensitive or perfectionistic
  • Environmental Factors: Stressful life events, academic pressure, or family dynamics

Children with GAD often have other co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, sensory processing challenges, or learning differences that can influence the severity of anxiety symptoms.

Diagnosis & Clinical Treatment

GAD should be diagnosed by a licensed mental health provider, such as:

  • Child psychologists
  • Pediatric psychiatrists
  • Licensed clinical social workers

Treatment typically involves Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), family education, and sometimes medication for moderate to severe cases.

Important Note:


DrSensory does not diagnose or treat mental health conditions. Instead, we help families access developmental therapies that support children with anxiety-related challenges.

How Developmental Therapies Support Children with GAD

Children with GAD often benefit from additional support beyond mental health treatment—especially when anxiety is linked to communication difficulties, sensory sensitivities, or daily functioning challenges.

Use the DrSensory Therapist Directory to find trusted pediatric occupational therapists (OTs), speech-language pathologists (SLPs), and physical therapists (PTs) in your area.

1. Occupational Therapy (OT)

OTs help children develop self-regulation skills, manage sensory overload, and improve daily routines. Many children with GAD struggle with emotional regulation and benefit from sensory-informed strategies.

2. Speech-Language Therapy (SLP)

SLPs work with children who have anxiety around communication, social interaction, or expressive language. Building confidence in speaking and social participation can reduce anxiety in everyday settings.

3. Physical Therapy (PT)

PTs help children with physical symptoms related to anxiety—like muscle tension or poor posture—and support participation in physical activities that can boost mood and confidence.

4. Parent & Family Coaching

Many pediatric therapists offer caregiver training to implement calming strategies, improve routines, and create environments that support emotional safety.

💡 The DrSensory Approach

At DrSensory, our mission is to make it easier for families to find qualified pediatric therapists who support developmental and behavioral needs related to conditions like Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

  • 🔍 Therapist Directory Filtered by Location & Specialty
  • 🎓 Trusted Pediatric OTs, SLPs, and PTs
  • 📘 Parent-Focused Resources on Child Development
  • 🤝 Supportive Tools to Complement Mental Health Treatment

While we don’t provide therapy ourselves, we help you build the right team for your child.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What’s the difference between normal worry and GAD?

All kids worry occasionally, but children with GAD worry constantly and excessively, often without clear triggers. These worries interfere with daily life and can cause physical symptoms.

How early can GAD be diagnosed in children?

GAD can be diagnosed in children as young as 6 or 7 years old, although some children show signs earlier. If your child seems unusually anxious for their age, it’s best to seek a professional opinion.

Can developmental therapies help with anxiety?

Yes. While mental health treatment is central, children with GAD often benefit from occupational therapy, speech therapy, or physical therapy to improve self-regulation, communication, and participation in daily life.

What is the role of sensory processing in childhood anxiety?

Many children with anxiety also experience sensory processing difficulties, where everyday sights, sounds, or textures can feel overwhelming. Therapies that support sensory regulation can significantly ease anxiety-related behaviors.

How can I find a pediatric therapist near me?

Use the DrSensory Therapist Directory to search for licensed pediatric OTs, SLPs, or PTs who have experience working with children who face anxiety-related developmental challenges.

This page provides general educational content and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a licensed provider for diagnosis and treatment.

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