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How to deal with the physiological effects of the current crisis
Without knowing it, your child could be facing stress, especially due to Covid-19. It has brought about numerous changes to everyone’s lives, and children who are not used to raised stress levels may be struggling without anyone noticing. Disrupted routines, missed milestones, and the effect of Covid-19 on schooling, can all lead to worrisome levels of stress in children and teens. Stress can lead to lower academic performance, social isolation, and a decline in mental health.
It is important to be aware of some signs and symptoms that might show your child is battling stress. Paying attention to shifts in behavior can help you assist your child. Emotional indicators that your child is struggling can include anxiety, mood swings, clinginess, fears, restlessness, increased crying or anger, emotional overreactions, and a regression towards behaviors that were comforting in early childhood. While stress is seen as mainly effecting emotions, it can also show physical symptoms. Some physical indicators that can be seen in children and teens are headaches, chest pain, stomach aches, not being able to sleep, nightmares, an increased heart rate, changes in appetite, and pretending to be sick to avoid socializing.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your children, take the time to think about what could be causing this stress. Aside from the pandemic, stress in children is commonly an effect of a significant life change such as starting a new school year or family issues. Children are more effected by their environment when it comes to new places, being away from home, performing in front of others, and perceived dangers, such as the dark, then teens. Teens are commonly more stressed by puberty, self-esteem, future, cyberbullying, relationships and dating, and peer pressure. Both children and teens can be seen as being stressed from changing schools, grades, balancing school and extracurriculars, disappointing parents, parental divorce, financial difficulties, or unsafe living situations.
It is possible to alleviate these stressors from your children. You can start by talking to them in an open and supportive way. Ask them what is on their mind and listen to what they say in a calm manner, free from judgement. It is common for a child to need time to open up, especially as young children aren’t familiar with what stress is. Young children may refer to stress as them being scared or sad. Try to pinpoint the source of your child’s statements if they cannot themselves. Once the stressor is identified, teach healthy coping methods to your child. Mindfulness and breathing techniques can be a great way for your child to learn how to relax. Physical exercise can also help combat the feelings of stress. A healthy lifestyle and an encouragement to lower screen time- especially during distance learning- is recommended. Planning fun activities to spend quality time together can also bring comfort to a child. Lastly, manage your own stress. If you are going through a stressful time yourself, take care of yourself. Your happiness is important so that you can serve as a loving, attentive presence in your child’s life.
In some cases, even the best efforts cannot help some children the way a professional could. If your child will not open up to you about the source of their stress, or their symptoms are worsening, seeking out professional help can be beneficial. Contact your family doctor or a trained child or adolescent therapist. A child in distress deserves help and support to return to enjoying their childhood.
