Childhood anxiety

When is childhood anxiety considered signifigant enough to warrant intervention?  And what types of intervention?  Play therapy?  Medication?

My son is 7 yrs old and is totally congentially blind with some sensory integration issues as well.  However one of his largest problems is anxiety and self regulation-becoming less anxious or being able to calm himself.

He receives SI/OT.  I have commented on the anxiety issues with his pediatrician however she feels that any child who was totally blind would have an anxiety problem.  My father in law suffers from anxiety as well as my husband (who was undiagnosed until a full blown anxiety attack occurred at 28 yrs.)who takes paxil.  

Thank you,

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Robyn,

The key ingredient in deciding about professional intervention, whether via therapy (probably not play therapy) or medication or both, is the degree to which the anxiety impairs your son's day-to-day life. If the anxiety gets in the way, on a regular basis, of his schooling, routines, relationships, etc., then professional consultation is in order. The family history of anxiety is certainly an important consideration, and I would be reluctant to settle for the anxiety as something which should be expected.