• Mental Health and Wellness Services

  • SUPPORTING AN ANXIOUS CHILD

    Overcoming anxiety has become a challenge for many children. Below are some pointers for helping children escape the cycle of anxiety.

    1. The goal isn’t to eliminate anxiety, but to help a child manage it.
    2. Don’t avoid things just because they make a child anxious.
    3. Express positive — but realistic — expectations.
    4. Respect their feelings, but don’t empower them.
    5. Don’t ask leading questions.
    6. Don’t reinforce the child’s fears.
    7. Encourage the child to tolerate their anxiety.
    8. Try to keep the anticipatory period short.
    9. Think things through with the child.
    10. Try to model healthy ways of handling anxiety

     

    Some signs of anxiety in children:

    • Trouble Sleeping
    • Stomach aches
    • Being clingy around caregivers or parents
    • Trouble concentrating
    • Tantrums

     

    How can I help my child manage anxiety at home?

    • Set time aside to check in with your child. (gardening, going on a walk, bike riding, drawing, etc.)
    • Praise your child - use positive encouragement and make them feel good about themselves
    • Explore what is worrying your child, since stress can lead to anxiety. Identifying stressors can help them get support during difficult times

     

    How can I help my child manage school anxiety?

    • Talk with teachers and school counselors to develop support strategies
    • Help them set realistic goals for school
    • Check in to see if there are any family pressures about school
    • Reward their behavior and accomplishments
    • Remind them that they can take control of their worries

     

    A helpful first step is for you and your children to become aware of and recognize what causes them to feel intense anxiety. Once those triggers are identified, you can implement many of the tips below:

    • Validate and Empathize
    • Help your child feel understood and validated by affirming their thoughts
    • Challenge unhelpful thinking
    • Talk through their feelings to help them process and gain a new perspective
    • Practice Deep Breathing
    • Break Down Tasks
    • For younger children, use rewards when providing positive reinforcement. For older children, use positive reinforcement and encourage them to reward themselves
    • Role-playing feared situations can help with preparation
    • Don't label emotions bad

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