Anxiety is a common feeling that many people experience at some point in their lives. Some children feel anxious more often than others, and can find it hard to cope with their anxiety.
Keeping your child healthy and happy is the first step in helping them with their anxiety. This includes getting them the right treatment, giving them the support they need to manage their symptoms and developing coping strategies so they don’t let their anxiety get in the way of everyday life.
Talk to them about their fears and help them learn how to use coping skills such as mindfulness and relaxation techniques. These can make a big difference in how they feel, and help them to build their confidence.
Try to be receptive to your child’s feelings and offer them your undivided attention. Listen attentively and validate their thoughts without interrupting them, to help your child feel comfortable talking about their anxiety.
Reassure them that anxiety is a normal, natural part of growing up.
Your child will likely have some anxiety when they’re faced with certain situations that are a little scary, such as a new place, or going to sleepovers. They may also worry about things like monsters or loud noises.
Explain that the brain can give kids a real alarm when it’s thinking about something that is potentially dangerous, but they also need to remember that there are times when the brain can trigger a false alarm. This means that they may fear things that aren’t a serious danger, such as trying out for the basketball team or speaking in front of a large group of people.
When your child’s anxiety gets too bad, help them to recognise when they need to take action. This could be by listening to their alarm bells or telling them that you’re there to support them.
Reassurance is important for all kids, but it can be especially important for anxious ones. It’s a good idea to use reassuring words, but it’s also a good idea to teach your child how to reassure themselves with healthier self-talk.
Teach them to practice breathing exercises, such as taking deep breaths, counting in 3 and out for 3. This can help calm them down and prevent them from becoming tense or upset.
Encourage them to engage in regular exercise, such as swimming or running around the block. It’s been shown to reduce the symptoms of both depression and anxiety, and it also improves their physical health.
Limit screen time, and make sure they’re engaging in quality content. It can be difficult for some kids to limit their screen time, but if you’re worried about their mental health, this is a good step.
Establishing a routine can also be helpful in managing your child’s anxiety, and it helps them to know what to expect. This can include a regular bedtime and sleep schedule, as well as curtailing their screen time near bedtime.
Ensure they’re surrounded by supportive friends and family, and that they have a safe and secure place to go when they need to relax.