Supporting Children with Stress
Supporting Children with Stress
We all need just the right the right amount of stress to thrive. Stress can be acute, episodic or chronic and we can react to stress differently – physically and emotionally.
Stress can be caused by major life events (separation, death, accident…), unpredictable events (COVID-19), family responsibilities, social pressure (friendship, peer pressure, navigating family relationships…), work or school pressure.
How do I recognise if my child is under or over-stressed?
- Seeming bored, unmotivated
- Seeming withdrawn, indecisive or irritable
- Seeming more emotional than usual including more anxious, fearful, angry, sad or frustrated
- Headaches, appetite changes, stomach aches, nausea and difficulty sleeping
Supporting a Child with Stress
Help your child recognise the signs that they are over or under-stressed
Talk with your child about stress being a natural reaction and share some strategies with them to increase or reduce stress.
Support your child to find time to relax and do things they enjoy
Encourage your child to find a form of exercise they enjoy. Exercise is a great stress-reliever and a challenge when under-stressed
Reassess commitments and look at whether there is any way to cut back
Spend time as a family doing something you all enjoy
Seek support from your GP, the school counsellor or other professional if you are concerned
For more information, please visit the Kids Help Line website or contact your School Counsellor Ryoko if you feel that your child could benefit from any further support.