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Anxiety with school avoidance — DCH MCQ

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HardBehavioural and emotionalAnxiety with school avoidanceDCH

A 13-year-old boy has stopped attending school after panic symptoms on the bus. He has no psychosis or substance use, denies self-harm, and his physical examination and ECG are normal. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Assess anxiety and arrange psychological support with school plan

School avoidance with panic symptoms needs assessment for anxiety, risk and bullying, with a graded return plan and psychological support. Normal physical tests do not mean the problem should be dismissed. The pearl is to ask directly about self-harm even when the presentation appears anxiety-based.

Reference: NICE CG159