Stress in childhood

HOW CAN PARENTS HELP?

Parents can help children respond to stress in healthy ways. Some things parents can do include the following:

Provide a safe, secure, familiar, consistent, and dependable home.
Be selective in the television programs that young children watch (including news broadcasts), which can produce fears and anxiety.
Spend calm, relaxed time with your children.
Encourage questions.
Encourage expression of concerns, worries, or fears.
Listen to your child without being critical.
Build your child's feelings of self-worth. Use encouragement and affection. Try to involve your child in situations where he or she can succeed.
Try to use positive encouragement and reward instead of punishment
Allow the child opportunities to make choices and have some control in his or her life. This is particularly important, because research shows that the more people feel they have control over a situation, the better their response to stress will be.
Encourage physical activity.
Develop awareness of situations and events that are stressful for children. These include new experiences, fear of unpredictable outcomes, unpleasant sensations, unmet needs or desires, and loss.
Recognize signs of unresolved stress in your child.
Keep your child informed of necessary and anticipated changes such as changes in jobs or moving
Seek professional help or advice when signs of stress do not decrease or disappear.

WHAT CAN CHILDREN DO TO RELIEVE STRESS?

Children can do some things for themselves to help reduce stress. Tips include the following:

Talk about your problems. If you cannot communicate with your parents, try someone else that you can trust.
Try to relax. Listen to calm music. Take a warm bath. Close your eyes and take slow deep breaths. Take some time for yourself. If you have a hobby or favorite activity, give yourself time to enjoy it.
Exercise. Physical activity reduces stress.
Set realistic expectations. Do your best, and remember that nobody is perfect.
Learn to love yourself and respect yourself. Respect others. Be with people who accept and respect you.
Remember that drugs and alcohol NEVER solve problems.
Ask for help if you are having problems with stress management.