ALTERNATIVE LEARNERS

Anxiety Disorders and Anxious Mood

Anxiety Disorders and problems of anxious mood are marked by worry, distress, and tension.  Approximately 13 percent of children between the ages of 9 and 17 are reported to experience anxiety-based difficulties.  There is a wide range of Anxiety Disorders, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Separation Anxiety Disorder, Social Phobia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.  The causes of Anxiety Disorder are varied and include genetic features, stressful life circumstances, modeling by parents, and trauma.

Anxiety-based disorders can result in difficulties in effectively handling emotions, where individuals become easily stressed by minor inconveniences and difficulties.  This can result in tendencies towards social withdrawal and extreme stress in social situations.  When anxiety is marked by worry or obsessive ideation, it can have an impact upon youngsters’ ability to sustain their attention, plan, or effectively utilize their working-memory skills.  Anxiety at higher levels can result in difficulties in getting started on tasks and task persistence, often due to concerns regarding inadequate performance. 

Traditional interventions include individual psychotherapy, particularly strategies using cognitive behavioral methods.  Medication is regularly used with youngsters with Anxiety Disorders.  Behavioral strategies, including learning breathing and relaxation techniques and attending to diet and exercise, are also helpful.

A number of digital technologies can be helpful in addressing Anxiety Disorders.  There are many simple digital technologies, such as DVDs for training yoga, CDs with breathing and relaxation instructions, and television exercise shows, that may be helpful in reducing signs of anxiety.  Digital technologies using biofeedback for the computer such as Journey to the Wild Divine and other neurofeedback-based programs are helpful.  Using digital games and technologies as a diversion may also be helpful for youngsters who tend to ruminate and dwell about issues. 

Digital Technologies and Strategies:

Anxiety Disorders Digital Technology List

• Journey to the Wild Divine
• Wii Play
• Wii Fitness
• Dance, Dance Revolution
• Progressive Muscle Relaxation CDs
• Musical CDs Designed for Relaxation