Anxiety is a normal reaction to stress and can be beneficial in some situations. It can alert us to dangers and help us prepare and pay attention. Anxiety disorders differ from normal feelings of nervousness or anxiousness, and involve excessive fear or anxiety. Anxiety disorders are the most common of mental disorders.
Children and adolescents with anxiety disorders typically experience excessive anxiety, worry, and/or fear that is difficult to control, and interferes with their day to day functioning. Anxiety disorders are treatable and a number of effective treatments are available.