Preparing for an appointment

You may start by seeing your child's pediatrician. He or she may refer you to a mental health professional with expertise in anxiety disorders.

What you can do

Before your appointment, make a list of:

• Your child's symptoms of anxiety. Note when they occur, whether anything seems to make them better or worse, and how much they affect day-to-day activities and interactions.
• What causes your child to be stressed. Include any major life changes or stressful events your child dealt with recently, as well as any past traumatic experiences.
• Any family history of mental health problems. Note if you, your spouse, your parents, grandparents, siblings or other children have struggled with any mental health problems.
• Any other health problems your child has. Include both physical conditions and mental health issues.
• All medications that your child takes. Include any medications, vitamins, herbs or other supplements, and the dosages.
• Questions to ask to make the most of your appointment.

Questions to ask may include:

• Are there other possible situations, psychological issues or physical health problems that could be causing or worsening the anxiety?
• Does my child need any tests?
• What type of therapy might help?
• Would medication help? If so, is there a generic alternative?
• In addition to treatment, are there any steps I can take at home that might help my child?
• Do you have any educational materials that I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions during the appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

The mental health professional is likely to ask you a number of questions. For example:

• What are your child's symptoms, and how severe are they? How do they impact your child's ability to function?
• When did you first begin noticing your child's separation anxiety?
• What, if anything, seems to reduce your child's anxiety?
• Has your child had any traumatic experiences recently or in the past?
• What, if any, physical or mental health conditions does your child have?
• Does your child take any medications?
• Do you or any of your blood relatives have persistent anxiety or other mental health conditions, such as depression?

Preparing and anticipating questions will help you make the most of your time with the mental health professional.