Children these days face anxiety due to the stress caused by academics, extracurricular activities and social expectations. This leaves children with many pressures to deal with academic, extr-acurricular, and social demands. Sometimes this pressure causes them stress and anxiety, and if nothing is done to overcome these feelings, it will soon affect the mental health of the child. So, at Sugam Hospital, we support parents to understand their child’s potential challenges and teach them effective interventions. 

Understanding Stress and Anxiety in Children

Stress and anxiety are natural reactions to problems, but when they become overwhelming, they start interfering with the child’s life. Stress is usually the result of external pressures like exams or peer interactions, while anxiety can arise without an obvious cause and may be reflected in excessive worry, fear, or avoidance. Knowing the difference is the first step to helping your child deal with his or her mental health needs.

Watch for these signs:

Children do not always express their feelings; therefore, parents must notice changes in behavior. The most frequent signs of stress and anxiety are:

• Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomach pains, or unexplained fatigue indicate underlying stress.
• Behavioral Changes: Irritability or restlessness, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed may be observed.
• Academic Performance: A marked decline in school performance or unwillingness to attend classes.
• Sleep Problems: Not going to sleep easily, dreams that recur often, and sleeping too much are psychological signs.
• Overthinking/ Fear of Failure: Thoughts about the future are incessant, a person having perfectionism, or the idea of failure is something quite common in anxiety.

Tips for Parents to be in Support

Taking initiative before your child develops a significant mental health issue will matter. Here’s how.

Open Communication

Create a non-judgmental safe space where your child can voice their emotions without fear of judgment. Ask them questions like, “How is it going at school?” or “Is there something in your mind that is on your mind?”

Validate Their Feelings

Do not diminish their issues as something trivial or minor. On the contrary, validate your child’s feelings by letting them know, “It is fine. Let us figure out a way around this together.”

Teach Relaxation Techniques

Introduce mindfulness activities such as deep breathing, meditation, or soothing yoga to help them relax. Such activities can work to make them calm and emotionally resilient.

Avoid Over-Scheduling

Make sure that your child has a fair schedule and is given enough resting and playing time. Over scheduling can add to the stressful levels.

Model Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Children emulate their parents. Show how you manage your stress by staying calm, talking about the emotions, and finding the solutions.

When to Call for Professional Help

If your child’s stress or anxiety persists despite your efforts, seeking professional guidance is essential. At Sugam Hospital, our best pediatricians in Chennai are trained to assess and support children facing emotional challenges. Early intervention can prevent long-term effects and help your child thrive.

It is a journey of understanding, patience, and love towards your child’s mental health. With an eye on the signs of stress and anxiety, and proactive steps in this regard, you can foster emotional well-being and put your child on the right track for a happier, healthier life. Don’t worry, you are not alone in this; Sugam Hospital is there to support you at every step.