Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD

November 1, 2020

Frequently asked to help parents whose children struggled with anxiety, Lebowitz (Treating Childhood and Adolescent Anxiety: A Guide for Caregivers) shares how parents can proactively help. Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) is a systematic treatment approach that has been tested in numerous clinical trials and gives parents the tools to help their children. Lebowitz eases parents' minds by disputing the myth that child anxiety is caused by something the parent did wrong. Anxiety problems are the most common mental health problems in children and adolescents with studies indicating five to 10 percent of children between the ages of preschool and adolescence struggle. Behavioral changes directly related to anxiety include nightmares, difficulty sleeping, issues with eating and appetite, and struggles with mood and anger. Addressing the causes and effects of child anxiety, Lebowitz shares some of the pitfalls parents make along the way. The book includes case studies, worksheets, and a list of resources. VERDICT In this time full of tumult and unrest, statistics already show a sharp increase in mental health issues in children and adolescents, and parents will be looking for resources to help. Recommended for its practical insights and tips.

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