Are your kids throwing excessive tantrums or expressing frequent bouts of anger? Have they suddenly lost an appetite or decided to devour all of the household junk food? According to the American Psychological Association, these are common symptoms of childhood stress.
When youth experience frustrations, they may struggle to know how to manage those emotions. Help your loved ones by combining the best ADHD medication for child with anxiety with appropriate stress management methods.
1. Practice Mindfulness
Children may not understand that people make mistakes. They may view errors as egregious flaws, making them painfully aware of their wrongs. As a result, they become nervous to try different activities or push themselves out of their comfort zone. Worry and fear take over, elevating stress levels.
These kiddos may benefit from practicing mindfulness. This philosophy centers around remaining aware of surroundings and feelings. The concept also concentrates on slowing down and appreciating the good in life. Minimize self-criticism by asking young ones to look past the bad and think of three positives.
You may include several activities to encourage this mindset. For instance, belly breathing helps alleviate overwhelmed thoughts. In addition, stop and look at the surroundings—finally, model upbeat and thoughtful thoughts.
2. Discuss Simple Stress Management Techniques
One critical component of stress management is admitting their emotional burden. Your kids don’t know how to mitigate tension and concern without support and guidance. Take time to talk with them about effective practices that could help them move on with their day and feel better.
Kids need to find outlets that work for them. Writing and speaking about the day are two possible tools. Encourage them to avoid bottling up their feelings. They may turn to a friend, you or a journal.
Many find nature relaxing. Stop and get out of a negative situation by walking slowly around the neighborhood. If your children still struggle, turn to over-the-counter natural anxiety relief for kids for additional support.
3. Allow for Downtime
Today’s youth keep busy. It’s common practice to fill up kids’ schedules from when they wake up until they go to bed. However, that chalked-up schedule may increase stress levels, leaving them little time to do something they love.
It’s okay not to do everything. Assess your schedule if you’re living in the car or finding it hard to have a family meal. Kids may feel more relaxed if they can chill at home or head outside with friends for an hour or two.
4. Encourage Sleep Habits
Poor sleep quality can impact mental health. Kids may feel irritable, struggle to think clearly and experience more anxiety when they don’t rest enough. Therefore, don’t just set a bedtime. Model and encourage appropriate nighttime habits.
Turn electronics off an hour before bed. Establish a routine with reading or quiet activities. Turn the temperature down, ensure the room is dark and encourage kids to stay asleep until their wake-up time the next day.
Empower your children to recognize their emotions and learn how to reduce irritability before it takes over. Give them several tools to choose from and remain open with them about stress and its impact.
