Anxiety disorders in children are a topic of growing interest and concern. The modern world, with its pandemics, political turmoil and ubiquitous internet, heightens feelings of anxiety not only among adults, but also among children and teenagers. Anxiety is the body's natural response to feeling threatened, serving a protective function, but it can become a significant problem when it develops into an unwarranted, chronic anxiety disorder. It is important to understand, how to support your child in coping with anxiety, when to seek professional help and what role a parent plays in all this.
What is anxietyk?
Anxiety is the body's state of readiness for a detected threat, part of the instinctive 'fight or flight' response. It is a normal response to danger and has an important protective role in moderation. Anxiety in children, as in adults, can help prepare for various challenges, such as a test at school or crossing the road safely. The problem arises when anxiety becomes excessive and inappropriate to the situation, limiting the child's daily functioning
When does anxiety become a problem?
When anxiety exceeds the norm and negatively affects a child's life, an anxiety disorder can develop. False alarms sent by the brain, which stimulate the sympathetic nervous system even in safe situations, can lead to a chronic state of tension and anxiety. Avoiding anxiety-provoking situations is not a solution and can lead to an exacerbation of the problem.
How to support your child in coping with anxietyk?
Acceptance and support: Avoid belittling your child's concerns or comparing them to others. It is important to show understanding and support the child by accepting their feelings.
Normalisation: Explain that anxiety is a natural reaction of the body, but also teach your child to recognise when it becomes excessive and how to deal with it.
Baby steps: Help your child to set small, achievable goals when confronted with fear objects. Praise for every effort, regardless of the outcome.
Anxiety in children at the psychologist's office
If anxiety in children significantly affects your life, it is worth consulting a specialist. Therapeutic programmessuch as "Resourceful Cat" for children or "Anxiety programme' for young people, offer strategies for coping with anxiety, developing social and emotional skills.
The role of the parent
The parent has a key role in helping a child struggling with anxiety. As research shows, the success of psychological therapy depends very much on the involvement of the parent. By supporting, accompanying and encouraging challenges, the parent can contribute to building the child's mental resilience. It is important that the parent models healthy ways of dealing with stress and anxiety.
Understanding the nature of anxiety, acceptance of the child's feelings, patience, support and the right therapeutic approach can help the child overcome anxiety disorders.
If you want your child to not feel the limitations that anxiety causes, to build healthy relationships with peers, to be able to cope with different social situations then I invite you to join me on this adventure. It will be interesting!
Sylwia Dziekańska
Psychologist
