Coping Skill – Recognising & Treating Anxious Children

A two-year-old is kind of like having a blender, but you don’t have a lid for it

-Jerry Seinfeld

Concept:

Each generation faces different challenges.

The generation of children aged 5-10 years now will face unprecedented challenges in the future, including the impact of climate change, rapid technological advancements, a changing job market, and increasing social and economic inequalities. They will need to develop resilience, adaptability, critical thinking, and collaboration skills to navigate these complex and uncertain times.

Signposts:

Here are some of the best methods to recognize anxiety in children :-

• Physical symptoms – such as stomach aches, headaches, nausea, dizziness, sweating, and trembling.

• Behavioural changes – such as avoidance of certain activities or situations, excessive crying, temper tantrums, clinginess, and irritability.

• Cognitive changes – such as excessive worrying, negative thinking, difficulty concentrating, and racing thoughts.

• Sleep disturbances – such as difficulty falling or staying asleep, nightmares, and night terrors.

• Social withdrawal – such as reluctance to participate in social activities or making new friends.

• Changes in appetite – such as loss of appetite or overeating.

• Physical complaints with no apparent medical cause.

• Difficulty managing emotions or expressing them appropriately.

It is important to note that some of these symptoms may also be present in other mental health conditions, and a proper evaluation by a mental health professional is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Skill/Plan:

Here are some of the best methods to treat anxiety in children: –

• Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) – a form of therapy that helps children identify negative thoughts and behaviours and learn coping strategies to change them.

• Play therapy – a form of therapy that helps children express their emotions through play and creative activities.

• Relaxation techniques – such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or visualization, can help children learn to calm themselves down when they feel anxious.

• Exposure therapy – a form of therapy that gradually exposes children to situations or objects that cause anxiety, helping them overcome their fears.

• Parental involvement – parents can help their children by being supportive, understanding, and providing a safe and nurturing environment.

• Medication – in some cases, medication may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety.

• Lifestyle changes – such as regular exercise, healthy diet, good sleep hygiene, and minimizing screen time, can help reduce anxiety in children.

• Mindfulness practices – teaching children to be present in the moment and non-judgmental can help reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being.

• School support – teachers and school counsellors can provide support and accommodations for children with anxiety, such as reducing academic pressure or providing a calm and quiet space when needed.

It is important to note that every child is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Treatment should be tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the child and their family.

Action:

Observe & Act

Difficulty:

Medium

Speed:

Slow

Other Compatible Coping Skills

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