Recognizing, diagnosing, and treating pediatric generalized anxiety disorder.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), characterized by excessive worry or apprehension, can lead to significant distress or impairment in patients' social or occupational function but commonly is overlooked by primary care providers. GAD and other anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health disorders affecting children. Without treatment, children with GAD are at higher risk for academic underperformance, substance abuse, other mental health disorders, and poor outcomes in adulthood. This article reviews screening and assessment for GAD in children and pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic recommendations for management.