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Side effects of SSRIs can include headache, stomachache, trouble sleeping, skin rashes, and weight gain. Most side effects do not happen that often. But every once in a while, SSRIs can cause suicidal thoughts (see sidebar). They can cause something doctors call “activation.” When someone is activated, he or she may have trouble sleeping, move around a lot more than usual, or seem very busy. Some people have strong reactions to one SSRI but no reactions to another. So if the first drug your doctor suggests is unpleasant, you may just need to try a different one. It is vital that you tell your doctor about any and all side effects. Not all doctors agree that kids with anxiety should take SSRIs at all. Most doctors believe that psychotherapy

A mental health professional can

help you figure out what is making you anxious and develop a plan to address it.