Treating Anxiety in Children

Childhood is supposed to be full of fun, magic, and giggles. Sadly, for some children, this is not how they experience the world. At times, there is nothing parents can do to change this, though some parents simply are unaware of what is going on. Children can worry and be anxious and this can really effect them in every part of their young lives and for years to come. It is important to pinpoint anxiety and stress, and then to find help treating anxiety in children so you can give them their carefree childhood back.

Anxiety should not be a part of childhood, but there are many reasons why children become stressed or anxious. One reason is that they are struggling in school or being bullied by someone. If your child asks to stay home from school a lot or seems anxious when they go, this could be a sign that the problem is at school. If so, treating anxiety in children may be easy if you can find out what is really going on. Talk to their teacher and other school officials that can help you figure out why your child is fearful about being in school.

There are other reasons for children to feel stressed out. Some of the biggest stresses that effect children are parents fighting a lot, divorce or separation, or a big move away from family and friends. Children who are being abused by someone can also have huge anxiety problems. Treating anxiety in children who have these problems can be harder because it is difficult to make the reason for the stress go away. This is why you have to help them is to be as honest, open and reassuring as possible. Do not fight over the the kids during a separation. Instead, work on what is best for them no matter what has happened between you and your partner or spouse. This can go a long way towards making them feel better.

You can do some things for treating anxiety in children at home. Try stress balls and other tricks that they can do or use when they feel anxious. These really can help with small stress. Do what you can to make their environment as calm and welcoming as possible. Teach them about exercise and do it with them. Exercise can melt away all types of stress. Go for walks, ride bikes, and play in the yard with them when you can. The more they move around the less stress they are going to feel. The one on one time or family time will also benefit them.

Treating anxiety in children that is out of control is much harder. You can do the above things with them at home, but you may also need the help of a child therapist. They can work out what is causing the stress and use cognitive therapy to help them deal with and get rid of the stress in their lives. A good therapist should work with the child one on one, but should also involve immediate family for the best results. Check with your insurance, as they may very well cover these sessions completely or with a small copay.