Recently, our communities and the rest of the globe have been impacted by a lingering worldwide epidemic, political turmoil, as well as other tragedies involving violence and stress. Especially in the wake of recent alarming headlines and real-time photos on social media, many families, adults, and children alike, are facing increased emotions of powerlessness, tension, and anxiety. Children, even those who are not directly affected by a catastrophe, are at risk of experiencing elevated levels of anxiety, which can have a negative impact on their behavior and overall feeling of well-being during these trying times.
In the aftermath of a catastrophe, it is normal for everyone to experience some level of worry; however, when children and teens perceive the world as a frightening place, they experience increased anxiety that might manifest itself in observable and undesirable behaviors that parents and teachers may observe.
When children are exposed to unpleasant or upsetting experiences, they may develop anxieties about their own safety as well as concerns about the safety of their guardians. If a younger child experiences increased anxiety about separations, he or she may refuse to go to school and cry, cling to their parents, or become agitated when forced to separate. If a child or adolescent is suffering excessive anxiety or stress, they may experience internal symptoms that are not readily evident to others. These symptoms may include persistent sensations of worry, uneasiness, or a sense of being on edge. Anger, difficulty concentrating, disengagement, and acting-out behaviors are all possible outcomes of these emotions and feelings.
A number of children and teenagers may experience sleeping difficulties or suffer from negative, worrying thoughts that they are unable to overcome. Excessive anxiety induced by sirens, news stories, or another stressor can activate the body's natural response to danger, known as the "fight or flight" response, which can create stomach butterflies and a racing heart, among other symptoms. It is normal for children and teenagers to be concerned about frightening occurrences that occur in their lives. When people hear about fires, shootings, acts of terrorism, and uprooted communities, they may become concerned about their own safety and worry about what might happen if something goes wrong. Examples include wondering what they would do in a similar scenario, imagining what they would do in a similar situation, and discussing how they may help or receive support. Children as young as three years old can act out hypothetical disaster and rescue scenarios in their play.
Talk to your youngster in a calm and collected manner. Encourage them to ask questions and express their thoughts and emotions. It can be comforting for them to know that their concerns are understandable. When your child is concerned about the "what ifs," you should demonstrate and express calm, reasonable thinking, and problem-solving in order to alleviate their concerns.
Using this information, you will be able to better comprehend what has been said to them, what questions they may have, and what may be the actual source of their concerns and fears. Understanding a child's specific concerns is an important first step in assisting them in working through their fears and tough feelings.
It is crucial to be aware of what is going on, but avoid being exposed to violent images or news videos that could cause anxiety or overwhelming feelings of fear and despair. Choose the facts you want to share with your child and explain it in a style that is acceptable for his or her age.
Simple healthy routines such as eating nutritious foods, going for walks as a family, and having consistent bedtimes can help to provide a sense of predictability and comfort for children. Take time to unwind and relax with your partner while focusing on pleasant things. When children are afraid, an increased connection can help to alleviate their worried feelings.
Sharing news of happy events from the day, as well as practicing gratitude expressions, can assist to build pleasant emotions and reduce feelings of anxiousness.
Chronic, excessive anxiety can have a negative impact on a child's or teen's ability to perform, as well as their health and well-being. Many older children or teenagers may fall in with peer pressure and use illegal drugs and alcohol to try and block it out, while others may engage in criminal activities. If this happens, you will want a team of exceptional criminal defense attorneys to help them.
The world is a challenging place right now, and children and young people may need more support and guidance than ever. Hopefully, these tips will help you and your child stay calm and deal with whatever is thrown your way.
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