Anxiety can affect everyone of all ages, from the moment we are born right up to our oldest age. It is not a nice experience, but at least when you are an adult you have a better chance of seeking treatment for yourself. Being able to explain how you feel, and have autonomy over your day.
While you absolutely do not get these passes just because you are a grown-up, children seldom get any. They are stuck in an anxious state with little concept and understanding as to why they feel like they feel, or how they can manage it.
This piece is going to take a look at how you can Help Children with Anxiety, who is experiencing anxiety, so they can feel less alone.
Why Do Children Experience Anxiety?
Children experience anxiety for the same reasons that adults do too. Either they do not feel emotionally stable due to something that is happening in their environment, or within themselves, or they have already gone through a traumatic period. Which has left anxiety as a repercussion that then needs to be managed.
Because of this, it is important to encourage open dialogue between yourself and your children about their emotions and make sure they have a home life that is as stable as possible. This can Help Children with Anxiety feel grounded and know they have someone to go to.
Top tip: Remember, life is turbulent, and as a human it is impossible to prevent the ups and downs that life throws at us. What you can do is make sure you are there to go through it with your child, so they do not feel alone.
Do Not Avoid Triggers BUT Be Patient
If your child is anxious about doing something simple, such as paying a cashier by themselves or answering a question in class, it can be important that you do not enable the behaviors that let them avoid these situations.
While you might feel like you are doing them kindness in the short term, you may be making life more difficult in the long run. Especially when they need these types of skills, and can’t rely on you to step up or in the times they would rather not sink into the background.
Using steps to help them overcome their anxious thoughts and manage those feelings can be much more beneficial long term.
Get Professional Help
There are some specific anxieties that children can face when they are young such as age separation anxiety, which can quickly become warring on both you and your child.
If your child is already showing signs of anxiety or experiencing some distressing symptoms, do not wait, if you are able to get professional help straight away.
This can Help Children with Anxiety reduce the issues immediately and start to provide comfort to you both.