This is Jimmy.

Jimmy is 9 years old and in the 4th grade. He lives in the United States and loves art. Jimmy also had generalized anxiety disorder.

Generalized anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive worry that may be difficult to control. It can manifest in a number of symptoms (American Psychiatric Association, 2022, p.221), including:

1. Restlessness or feeling on edge

2. Fatigue

3. Difficulty concentrating

4. Irritability

5. Muscle tension

6. Sleep disturbance

Jimmy struggles with a few of these symptoms. He gets really nervous about going to school and sometimes the thought of it keeps him up at night. 

When Jimmy does make it to school, sometimes he panics and his dad has to pick him up. Jimmy worries about a lot of things. He worries about being called on in class and messing up, and if he will have anyone to sit with at lunch. Most of all, he worries about disappointing his parents, and often asks for reassurance.

Dad, did I do something wrong?

No Jimmy, you didn't do anything wrong. We love you.

Anxiety disorders are the most common disorders among young people, with a global prevalence of 6.5% (Rapee et al., 2023). Generalized anxiety disorder has a lifetime prevalence rate of 5.7% in adults, peaking at middle age. Females are also twice as likely to experience generalized anxiety disorder than males (Ray, 2023 p. 312). This means that Jimmy is a more rare case of someone with generalized anxiety disorder, because he is in his in childhood and a boy. While uncommon, his case is certainly not impossible (Flannery, n. d.).

Jimmy we're worried about you. We think you should let a doctor help you.

One day, Jimmy's parents asked if he would like to try to get some professional help for his persistent worries. He agreed even though he was anxious about seeing the doctor.

Okay, I'll try.

A psychiatrist asked Jimmy questions about his symptoms, how his anxiety affects his school and friendships, and how long he's felt this way.