In the US from 2016 to 2020, the number of children ages 3-17 diagnosed with anxiety disorders increased by 29% and diagnosed with depression increased 27%. This translates into roughly 6 million children diagnosed with anxiety and 3 million children diagnosed with depression.
March 2022 Report from the Department of Health and Human Services
In October 2022, an influential physician’s advisory panel has recommended that all children 8 years and older be screened for anxiety. After a robust study of the most recent pediatric mental health data, with multiple indicators that children’s mental health needs have been rising over time (beginning even before the COVID-19 pandemic), the US Preventative Services Task Force is recommending that all children from the ages of 8 and up should be screened for anxiety symptoms at their annual well-child visit with the pediatrician. Any signs or symptoms of anxiety should be referred for specialized care and support. The purpose is to identify signs and symptoms as early as possible to prevent children struggling, the development of severe anxiety disorders, and ultimately significant impairments functioning.
Next Steps For Your Family
- If your child is 8 or older, talk to your pediatrician about an anxiety screening at your next well-visit.
- If you or your pediatrician have concerns that your child may be showing signs or symptoms of anxiety, please contact us so we can discuss early intervention supports.
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