Pediatric providers can play a key role in the early identification and
treatment of anxiety. Brief screening tools can be used to enhance detection and
differentiation of anxiety symptoms. Once identified, providers can triage concerns to
determine the best course of action, including treatment setting (primary care versus
referral to an outpatient provider) and intervention approach (cognitive-behavioral
therapy, medication management). Distraction and parent education can be effective
tools to reduce short-term anxiety associated with office-based procedures. More longterm
treatment of anxiety, either within primary care or in community-based settings,
can vary depending on presenting concerns and the child’s age. However, evidencebased
approaches typically include psychoeducation, cognitive behavioral therapy,
recognition and management of physical cues of anxiety, cognitive restructuring,
exposures, relapse prevention, and collaboration with parents and schools. Medication
may be a useful way to augment treatment in certain circumstances.
Keywords: Anxiety in children, Anxiety treatment, Co-located mental health,
Cognitive-behavioral therapy, Pediatrics, Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor
(SSRI).