The COVID-19 pandemic brought forth feelings of stress, sadness, worry and anxiety.
Anxiety, in particular, has increased in the past year among children and adolescents due to changes in routine, schooling, social connections, time spent with extended family and future plans. Social opportunities that helped buffer children and teens from feelings related to anxiety and isolation have also been put on pause.
The first step in helping your child manage his or her anxiety is knowing what types of situations may trigger those anxious feelings.
What are some signs of feeling anxiety?
- Feelings of Uncertainty: Not knowing what your future holds and what tomorrow will bring.
- Thoughts of Unpredictability: With changes occurring week to week, it is difficult to feel security and a sense of stability.
- Feelings of Instability: A lack of routine or not having a normal schedule leads to feelings of instability.
- Isolation: One of the many things that exacerbates anxiety is isolation, such as feeling alone and feeling like you are unable to connect with others.
Some ways to help alleviate anxiety in children and teens
Parents modeling appropriate behavior
Children primarily learn coping skills from their parents, so it is important to teach children appropriate ways to manage their anxiety. For example, parents and caregivers can both model and encourage children to take part in relaxation techniques, proactive outlets (such as exercise, being outdoors), and distraction techniques (listening to music, watching a movie, reading your favorite book series). All of these activities can be utilized as tools to help alleviate feelings of anxiety and helplessness.
Encourage an open and honest dialogue
Many times, the way that our children process their thoughts and feelings on their own is what leads them to be anxious about an event. As parents and caregivers, it is important to encourage children to discuss these emotions with you. Creating this open dialogue will allow children and adolescents to feel that they have a safe place to discuss their fears.
Try to socialize
Although socializing has been difficult this past year, find ways to keep children and adolescents connected. Examples of this include allowing virtual gatherings or designated time to use the phone to speak to their peers.