Nurturing resilience: parenting anxious children
Parenting comes with its own set of challenges, and when your child grapples with anxiety, it adds an extra layer of complexity.
Anxiety is a common and normal part of childhood, but when it becomes persistent and interferes with a child’s daily life, it can be a cause for concern. Recognising and addressing anxiety in children is crucial for their emotional well-being and overall development. The increase in anxiety among children is a complex phenomenon with multiple contributing factors. Several societal, cultural, and environmental factors may contribute to the observed rise in anxiety levels among children.
Common Causes of Anxiety in Children:
Academic pressure: High expectations, academic stress, and fear of failure can contribute to anxiety in school-aged children.
Social pressures: Challenges in making friends, fear of rejection, or social anxiety can significantly impact a child’s mental well-being.
Parental expectations: Parents may unintentionally contribute to children’s anxiety by setting excessively high expectations or being overly involved in their academic and extracurricular pursuits.
Family changes: Events such as divorce, relocation, or the arrival of a new sibling can trigger anxiety in children.
Traumatic events: Exposure to traumatic events, whether directly or indirectly, can lead to heightened anxiety.
Genetic predisposition: A family history of anxiety or mental health disorders may increase a child’s susceptibility to anxiety.
Media exposure: Constant exposure to news and information, including disturbing events, can impact a child’s sense of safety and contribute to heightened anxiety levels.
Social media and technology: The pervasive influence of social media and technology has exposed children to new forms of social comparison and cyberbullying, potentially contributing to increased anxiety and a fear of missing out (FOMO).
Decreased outdoor play: Limited outdoor play and increased screen time may impact a child’s overall well-being. Outdoor activities have been linked to improved mental health, and their reduction could contribute to rising anxiety levels.
Over-scheduling and lack of free play: Children today often have busy schedules filled with structured activities, leaving less time for unstructured play. Lack of downtime can contribute to stress and anxiety.
Recognising Signs of Anxiety:
Physical symptoms: Look out for physical signs such as stomach aches, headaches, muscle tension, and fatigue, which can be indicators of heightened anxiety.
Behavioural changes: Observe changes in behaviour, such as increased irritability, restlessness, avoidance of certain situations, or difficulty concentrating.
Sleep disturbances: Disruptions in sleep patterns, such as difficulty falling asleep or frequent nightmares, may be linked to underlying anxiety.
Excessive worrying: Persistent and excessive worrying about everyday activities, school, social situations, or performance can be a red flag for anxiety.
Strategies for Supporting Anxious Children:
Pay close attention to changes in behaviour and mood and be open to communication. Foster a supportive and non-judgmental environment where your child feels comfortable expressing their feelings. Encourage open conversations about fears and worries, and actively listen without dismissing their concerns. Validate their emotions to help build their self-esteem.
Consistency is key for anxious children. Establish daily routines to provide a sense of predictability and stability. Routines can act as anchors, helping children feel more in control of their environment and reducing anxiety triggers.
Equip your child with effective coping mechanisms such as deep breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or creating a “calm-down” kit with sensory items.
Gradual exposure to anxiety-inducing situations can help children build resilience. Start with small, manageable steps and gradually increase the level of challenge. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and reinforce their ability to overcome obstacles.
Children often learn by observing their parents. Demonstrate healthy coping behaviours in your own life and talk about how you manage stress and anxiety.
If anxiety significantly impacts your child’s daily life, consider seeking the help of a mental health professional. Professional guidance can offer tailored strategies and support both you and your child through the process.
Foster positive social interactions by encouraging your child to build friendships and engage in activities they enjoy. Social connections can provide a strong support system and help alleviate feelings of isolation.
Parenting anxious children requires patience, understanding, and a commitment to creating a nurturing environment. By recognising anxiety, establishing routines, teaching coping strategies, and seeking professional support when needed, parents can play a crucial role in fostering resilience and empowering their children to navigate life’s challenges with confidence. Remember, each child is unique, and finding the right balance of support and encouragement is key to their emotional well-being. For more information, visit Bellavista School’s website.
Article supplied by Jody PringleEducational Psychologist at Bellavista S.H.A.R.E
