Technology Use in the Treatment of Pediatric Anxiety

Childhood anxiety is an impairing condition rising in prevalence and common concern in pediatric medical and psychiatric settings. Nurses and advanced practice nurses may likely be the first to identify symptoms of anxiety and are well-positioned to recommend supportive interventions to families. The aim of the current article is to synthesize current research on technology-based interventions designed to reduce anxiety in youth. A review of emerging digital approaches, including mobile applications (apps), internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapy programs, telehealth, gamified interventions, therapeutic podcasts, and virtual reality exposure interventions is provided. Evidence regarding the efficacy and feasibility of these tools is summarized, with attention to implementation considerations. Clinical use illustrations are used to inspire readers with the authors' examples of technology use in pediatric anxiety treatment. The aim of this review is to equip nurses with practical, evidence-informed recommendations for families, thereby enhancing access to early and effective anxiety management resources for children and adolescents.