What are Some Ways to Address Child Anxieties ?

Contrary to what people may believe, anxiety disorders are conditions not only restricted to the adult population. This dreadful and frightening mental condition can also affect our dear little ones who, in their innocence, are not free to the effects of stress in their lives.

Although they may be too young in our eyes to be ever concerned with anything other than satisfying their desire for fun and play, these kids can feel some pressure, too. Child anxieties are real. The stresses that they experience usually come in the form of being bullied by their playmates or being exposed to any kind of violence in the media or in their environment. Conflicts at home, separation from their parents and the grief that accompanies the death of a loved one or a pet can overwhelm their fragile coping system, as well.

Normally, child anxieties tend to fade away with time. Children outgrow them and live normal lives, able to cope well with duties and responsibilities. But there are instances when these fears go over the usual limit. When this is observed, parents’ attention and action are very much warranted.

Never ridicule or dismiss their fears.

When children experience fear and anxiety, it is important that parents hear them out. When they come forward with their problems, parents must never belittle their feelings as if their worries are not that important. Ridiculing them and dismissing their confessions by saying “don’t be silly, kid” is not helpful at all.

Responses of ridicule and dismissal from parents will result in children making choices based on their fears. They will end up avoiding and escaping every difficulty that they face. Sometimes, this can push children to seek the comfort they so want from their parents from other people who will make them feel better and safe. This kind of behavior could lead them to start missing school, join gangs, drink alcohol, smoke and use drugs.

Respect child anxieties.

In addition to the above mentioned impression, respect is a very important element in addressing the scared feelings of your kids. It is vital that every parent tries to comfort and appease the very common fears kids face – fears such as fear of the dark, ghosts, boogeyman, and odd noises. Mom and dad should try to act as if they were the ones feeling the anxiety. They should reflect what the fearful child should need most in such circumstance. They should feel the anxiety as if it were their own to be able to respond well.

Read more at Help Your Child with Anger

Author Ryan Riviera was a victim of anxiety. He has successfully overcome it through various anxiety coping techniques. If you are experiencing anxiety, visit www.calmclinic.com to learn more on how to solve yours.