1. New National Standards for School Nutrition The government recently finalized updated nutritional guidelines for school meal programs. These changes focus on a phased reduction of added sugars and sodium while increasing the variety of whole grains offered in lunches.
The Purpose: To combat rising rates of childhood obesity and type 2 diabetes by ensuring the two meals many children eat daily are nutrient-dense.
Significance: This marks the first time “added sugars” have been specifically targeted in school meal history, shifting the focus from simple calorie counting to long-term metabolic health.
Please follow the same at home too!
2. Surge in School-Based Mental Health Screenings Health departments have reported a 25% increase in the implementation of “universal screening” programs in middle schools. These programs use brief, standardized digital check-ins to identify students at risk for anxiety or depression before a crisis occurs.
The Purpose: To move from a reactive “crisis-only” model to a proactive preventative model for adolescent mental health.
Significance: By normalizing mental health checks alongside vision and hearing tests, schools are identifying “quiet” students who might otherwise fall through the cracks of the healthcare system.
If you suspect changes in your child’s behavior, talk to the school counselor or your child’s PCP
3. Breakthrough in RSV Preventative Access New data from the past 30 days shows a significant drop in infant hospitalizations following the first full season of widespread monoclonal antibody treatments. There is a renewed push to streamline insurance coverage for these treatments ahead of the next viral season.
The Purpose: To reduce the seasonal strain on pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) caused by Respiratory Syncytial Virus.
Significance: RSV has historically been the leading cause of hospitalization for infants. This data proves that preventative immunization can fundamentally change the “triple-demics” that have overwhelmed pediatric hospitals in recent years.
4. Digital Safety and Social Media Regulation Several states have introduced new “Age-Appropriate Design Codes.” These laws require social media platforms to enable the highest privacy settings by default for minors and prohibit features that encourage “infinite scrolling” or late-night notifications.
The Purpose: To mitigate the social and psychological harms associated with excessive screen time and predatory algorithms.
Significance: This shifts the burden of safety from parents to the platforms themselves, treating digital environments as public health spaces that require safety standards similar to physical playgrounds.
This is good, but monitor your child’s social media usage!
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with anything suggested in this article.
Real talk: if you’re reading this, you’ve probably already checked TikTok, Instagram, or Snapchat at least three times today. And according to new research, that constant scrolling might be doing something wild to your brain physically, changing how it develops.
The Numbers Don’t Lie
Let’s start with where we’re at right now. About 73% of teens check YouTube daily, and roughly 60% visit TikTok and Instagram every day. But here’s the kicker: nearly half of teens say they’re online “almost constantly,” and researchers found that half of adolescents use their smartphones for over 4.5 hours a day. Some studies even show teens hitting up to 9 hours daily on their devices.
If that sounds like a lot, you’re not wrong. And your brain knows it too. 45% of teens themselves admit they’re on social media too much, up from just 36% in 2022.
Here’s where it gets interesting (and slightly freaky). Scientists tracked over 8,000 kids aged 9-10 for four years, scanning their brains and monitoring their social media use. What they found was that kids who habitually check social media are becoming hypersensitive to feedback from their peers.
Translation? Every time you post something, your brain is literally training itself to crave those likes, comments, and reactions more intensely. The parts of your brain that process rewards and emotions specifically your amygdala and prefrontal cortex that starts lighting up differently than kids who don’t check social media as much.
Think of it like this: 78% of teens check their devices at least hourly, and 46% check “almost constantly”. Each time you do, you’re conditioning your brain to expect a hit of dopamine. Over time, researchers found that heavy social media users showed increased brain activity related to motivation and emotion, but decreased ability to control impulses. Basically, your brain gets better at wanting the scroll, but worse at stopping it.
The ADHD Connection
New research from Sweden and Oregon dropped some seriously concerning findings: there’s a significant link between screen time and ADHD diagnoses. As of 2022, over seven million kids and adolescents in the US had an ADHD diagnosis, up from just over six million in 2016, that’s a massive jump in only six years.
The researchers suggest social media might be part of why we’re seeing this spike. One in nine US kids now lives with ADHD, with the CDC calling it an “expanding public health concern”. While social media isn’t the only factor, scientists believe the constant stream of content makes it harder for developing brains to focus on anything that doesn’t provide instant gratification.
The Mental Health Factor
The stats on mental health are equally concerning. One study found that when a social media platform rolled out to college campuses, it was associated with a 9% increase in depression and 12% increase in anxiety. When researchers applied that across all US college students, they estimated the platform may have contributed to over 300,000 new cases of depression.
And it’s hitting girls particularly hard. 34% of teen girls say social media makes them feel worse about their own lives, compared to 20% of boys.
The Demographic Breakdown
Not everyone’s using social media the same way. Black and Hispanic teens use TikTok more than White teens (79% and 74% versus 54%), and teen girls are more likely than boys to use Instagram and TikTok. Meanwhile, boys dominate YouTube and gaming platforms.
The Changing Pattern
Here’s something that might surprise you: kids are starting to push back. 44% of teens have cut back on social media in 2024, up from 39% in 2023. More teens are recognizing something feels off, even if they can’t fully articulate it yet.
The perception of social media is shifting too. The number of teens who say social media makes them feel supported dropped from 67% in 2022 to just 52% in 2024. People are waking up to the fact that infinite scrolling isn’t actually making them feel connected—it’s doing the opposite.
The Bottom Line
Your brain is literally still under construction until you’re about 21. During these years, it’s especially sensitive to social feedback and reward systems. Social media platforms know this and have designed their algorithms to exploit it. The constant notifications, the endless scroll, the carefully crafted feeds—they’re all engineered to keep you coming back.
The science is clear: heavy social media use is associated with changes in brain development, increased sensitivity to social rewards, decreased impulse control, and higher rates of anxiety, depression, and attention problems. That doesn’t mean you need to delete all your apps tomorrow, but it does mean you should probably be way more intentional about how you’re using them.
Your brain is adapting to whatever environment you put it in. Make sure it’s adapting in ways that actually serve you.
Kids from families who can’t afford safety software are more vulnerable
Cool Tools That Actually Help 🛠️
Apps to Keep You Safe:
Bark (catches sketchy content)
Qustodio (screen time limits + monitoring)
Net Nanny (blocks bad stuff)
Social Media Moves:
Instagram’s “Restrict” feature
TikTok’s Family Pairing
Snapchat’s Friend Check Up
New School Programs:
Digital citizenship classes
Anonymous reporting systems
Peer support groups
The Mental Health Hit 🧠 This stuff isn’t just annoying – it seriously messes with kids:
Depression rates are way up
Anxiety is through the roof
Some kids have even thought about suicide (Source: American Psychological Association, 2021)
What You Can Do 💪
Document everything (screenshots are your friend)
Block toxic people immediately
Talk to someone you trust – don’t deal alone
Use privacy settings on all your accounts
Join anti-bullying groups at school
Need Help?
National Bullying Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
StopBullying.gov has tons of resources
LGBTQ+ specific help: The Trevor Project
Real talk: Cyberbullying sucks, but you’re not alone in dealing with it. There are more tools and people ready to help than ever before. Don’t let the trolls win!
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
So, gaming’s kinda become the new obsession for us kids. It’s wild – over 90% of us aged 2 and up are into it. We’re talking consoles, PCs, phones, you name it. 🎮📱
Gaming’s got its perks. It helps some of us chill out and feel good about ourselves. Like, beating a tough level? Total confidence boost. 💪 Plus, it can actually make us smarter – problem-solving, teamwork, all that good stuff.
But here’s the thing – it’s getting a bit out of hand for a lot of us. Some kids are so into it they’re forgetting about school, friends, and even basic self-care. Not cool. 😬
Over 90% of mini-humans aged 2+ are on that gamer grind. It’s like, EVERYONE’S doing it – consoles, PCs, phones, even that trippy VR stuff.
50% of teens feel addicted to their mobile devices (Common Sense Media, 2016)
Average teen spends 9 hours a day on digital media (CNN, 2022)
86% of parents think their teens spend too much time gaming (Pew Research, 2023)
Too much screen time can mess with our heads – stuff like depression and anxiety. It’s like we’re forgetting how to deal with our emotions without a screen in front of us.
So what can our parents do?
Talk to us about it. Like, actually listen to why we like gaming.
Set some fair limits. Maybe tie game time to getting stuff done? Like, “2 hours of Fortnite if you crush that math test!” 📊
Show us some cool stuff to do offline. We might surprise ourselves!
Help us make a schedule that includes everything – homework, chores, and yeah, some game time too.
Parents gotta practice what they preach. If you’re always on your phone, we’ll notice.
If it’s getting really bad, maybe talk to a pro who knows about this stuff.
It’s all about finding that sweet spot, you know? We can still game and have a life. It’s possible!
Is your teen’s room starting to smell like a mix of dirty socks and existential dread? If your kid’s been giving school the cold shoulder, hiding out in their room like it’s an underground bunker, or constantly saying their head hurts, it might be more than just a case of the Mondays—they could be dealing with some serious anxiety or depression.
Street Notes on Anxiety and Depression in Teens
It’s Not Just a Phase: Anxiety and depression among teens have been on the rise for a while, and the COVID-19 pandemic didn’t do any favors. It’s like anxiety got a subscription box that keeps getting bigger every month.
Starting Young: Anxiety likes to crash the party early—most kids start feeling it around 11. Depression? It’s not far behind, usually showing up at around 13. And spoiler alert: it doesn’t just magically disappear when they hit 18.
Girls Have It Tough: While anxiety and depression can hit anyone, girls, especially during their teen years, are more likely to deal with these feelings. It’s like the universe decided to pile on extra during puberty. Thanks, universe.
Double Trouble: Anxiety and depression are BFFs in the worst way. If your kid has one, there’s a good chance the other is lurking around the corner. Anxiety’s like that annoying kid who shows up early to the party – usually around age 11. Depression follows fashionably late at 13.
Long-Term Effects: If anxiety and depression decide to set up camp in your kid’s life, they’re not just crashing for a season. Without the right help, they can lead to struggles with school, risky behaviors, and more issues down the line.
Pandemic Fallout: After COVID, a study at Johns Hopkins found anxiety among Asian girls skyrocketed by 136%, and depression in Hispanic boys shot up by 190%. The numbers aren’t just stats; they’re kids trying to navigate a world that suddenly got a whole lot scarier(Home).
School Stress: Between cramming for exams and trying to outdo each other, the pressure can be enough to make anyone freak out. And guess what? It is.
Social Media Overload: Endless scrolling through perfectly filtered lives can make anyone feel like a potato in comparison. When everyone’s life looks perfect online, it’s easy to feel like you’re falling behind IRL.
Bullying: Bullies have gone digital. Now your kid can get picked on 24/7. Yay, technology! Whether it’s in person or online, bullying is a major trigger. It’s like carrying a backpack full of bricks—every. Single. Day.
Family Drama: If there’s trouble at home, your kid might feel like the walls are closing in. Family fights, a parent’s mental health issues, or other rough stuff can seriously up the anxiety and depression ante.
Pandemic Panic: COVID didn’t just mess with our social lives; it messed with our minds. Especially for minority kids, who faced more isolation and stress. And the 24/7 news cycle? It’s like anxiety on demand, with a side of doomscrolling. Anxiety and depression in teens are skyrocketing faster than TikTok trends.
The Parent Playbook
First off, mental health is just as crucial as physical health—maybe even more. Ignoring it isn’t an option because these issues can grow into lifelong problems or, worst case, lead to something as serious as suicide.
Catch It Early: The sooner you spot the signs, the better. Early intervention can make a huge difference.
Therapy Works: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a proven method to help kids manage anxiety and depression. It’s like giving them tools to deal with the craziness in their heads.
Team Effort: Don’t go solo. Involve yourself, other caregivers, or professionals. A strong support system can turn things around.
Mindfulness Matters: Teach your kid some chill techniques. Mindfulness isn’t just for yoga moms anymore. Mindfulness and relaxation skills can help them keep anxiety in check.
Need More Deets?
Remember, with the right support, kids can bounce back from anxiety and depression like rubber bands. Your love, patience, and maybe a few dad jokes (use sparingly) can make all the difference. Check out these sources for extra info:
Research shows that brain exercises and cognitive stimulation can supercharge children’s cognitive abilities, including attention, memory, problem-solving, and reasoning skills (Diamond & Lee, 2011). The CDC also found that kids who dive into cognitively stimulating activities, like reading and playing games, tend to ace their academics and show impressive cognitive growth (CDC, 2018).
The NIH highlights that regular brain workouts can forge new neural pathways and bulk up existing ones, potentially boosting brain function and cognitive skills (NIH, 2020). Moreover, a study in Psychological Science discovered that children who took part in brain-training programs saw notable improvements in working memory and attention (Jaeggi et al., 2011).
Remember, a child’s brain development is influenced by various factors, including nutrition, sleep, physical activity, and overall well-being. So, let’s make those brain workouts fun and effective!
20 Brain Exercises to Boost Kids’ Brainpower
Here are some super fun and engaging brain exercises that will help your kids develop cognitive skills, improve focus, and enhance overall brain function:
Puzzles (Jigsaw, Riddles, Logic Puzzles)
Why it works: Enhances problem-solving skills and spatial awareness.
Try this: Pick a challenging jigsaw puzzle and work on it as a family. Discuss the pieces and strategies together.
Memory Games (Matching Games, Simon Says)
Why it works: Improves short-term memory and attention.
Try this: Play a matching card game where kids have to find pairs from a set of cards laid face down.
Word Games (Scrabble, Boggle, Hangman)
Why it works: Expands vocabulary and spelling skills.
Try this: Have a friendly Scrabble competition and see who can create the longest word.
Storytelling (Creating and Narrating Stories)
Why it works: Enhances creativity and language skills.
Try this: Create a story together where each person adds a sentence in turn.
Counting and Math Games
Why it works: Strengthens numerical and logical thinking.
Try this: Play math bingo or solve math riddles together.
Drawing and Coloring
Why it works: Boosts fine motor skills and creativity.
Try this: Have a drawing contest with fun themes like animals or space.
Building with Blocks or Lego
Why it works: Enhances spatial awareness and engineering skills.
Try this: Build a tall tower or a specific structure from imagination.
Playing Music or Learning an Instrument
Why it works: Develops auditory skills and coordination.
Try this: Start with simple songs on a keyboard or learn to play a basic tune on a guitar.
Learning a New Language
Why it works: Boosts cognitive flexibility and memory.
Try this: Use language learning apps or practice basic phrases together daily.
Cooking or Baking (Following Recipes)
Why it works: Teaches following instructions and basic math.
Try this: Bake cookies together, letting the kids measure and mix ingredients.
Board Games (Chess, Checkers, Stratego)
Why it works: Improves strategic thinking and patience.
Try this: Have a family chess tournament and discuss different strategies.
Card Games (Go Fish, Crazy Eights, Memory)
Why it works: Enhances memory and strategic planning.
Try this: Play a few rounds of Crazy Eights or Go Fish, focusing on remembering the cards.
Why it works: Combines physical activity with problem-solving.
Try this: Create a scavenger hunt list for a nature walk, identifying various plants and animals.
Reading and Comprehension Exercises
Why it works: Builds vocabulary and comprehension skills.
Try this: Read a storybook together and discuss the plot, characters, and what might happen next.
Writing Prompts or Journaling
Why it works: Enhances writing skills and creativity.
Try this: Set aside time each day for journaling about fun topics or daily activities.
Physical Exercises (Dance, Yoga, Martial Arts)
Why it works: Boosts brain function through physical activity.
Try this: Have a mini dance party or follow a kid-friendly yoga video.
Brain Teasers and Riddles
Why it works: Sharpens problem-solving and logical thinking.
Try this: Challenge your kids with fun riddles and brain teasers during snack time.
Coding or Programming Games
Why it works: Develops logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Try this: Use kid-friendly coding apps or websites like Scratch to create simple programs.
Arts and Crafts (Origami, Knitting, Pottery)
Why it works: Enhances fine motor skills and creativity.
Try this: Make simple origami animals or create a fun craft project.
Mental Math or Calculation Games
Try this: Play mental math games where you solve simple math problems quickly.
Why it works: Strengthens numerical skills and quick thinking.
It’s summer, and it’s the perfect time to dive into brain exercises! These activities are not just beneficial for cognitive development but are also a ton of fun.
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
Post-covid, our kids have been facing a lot of mental issues. I have seen a marked rise of depression, anxiety and suicidal-tendencies in kids. Mindfulness is one practice that can be an antidote for the mental stress that our kids go through lately.
Breath Olympics: Challenge your little one to a “Breath Olympics” – who can take the slowest, deepest breath? Winner gets a tickle attack!
Gratitude Guru: Imagine if kids had a “Gratitude Guru” app, where they earn points for spotting things they’re thankful for. Unlock a level, get a sticker – mindfulness gamified!
Mindful Munchies: Turn meals into a taste adventure! Ask them to rate each bite like food critics – “Is this a 5-star broccoli or a 3-star carrot?”
Nature Detectives: Take a nature walk and become “Nature Detectives.” Count how many bird sounds you hear or give flowers secret agent names. Double O Orchid, reporting for duty!
Listening Olympics: Put on a blindfold and have a “Listening Olympics.” Can they identify if it’s the cat purring or you whispering silly jokes?
Yoga Ninja Challenge: Pretend to be “Yoga Ninjas” striking different poses. Bonus points for holding the tree pose without wobbling!
Colorful Calmness: Turn coloring into a mindful mission. Can they color the entire page without going outside the lines? Michelangelo would be proud!
Super Mindful Playtime: Declare a “Super Mindful Playtime” where toys come to life, and adventures happen in slow motion.
Storytime Adventure: During storytime, create a magical world where characters pause to take deep breaths. The dragon needs mindfulness too!
Breath-Counting Race: Turn breath counting into a race. Who can count to 10 with deep breaths faster – the child or a speedy turtle?
The Great Greeting Quest: Make greetings an epic adventure! How many different ways can they say “hello”? Alien greetings are totally acceptable!
Mindful Sneak Attack: Sneak a “Breathing Buddy” into their backpack. When they find it, it’s time for a secret mission: calm breaths in the wild!
Silence Seekers: Challenge the family to a “Silence Seekers” competition. The first one to giggle loses. Winner gets the comfiest pillow for a nap.
Masterpiece Mingle: Art time becomes “Masterpiece Mingle.” Swap drawings mid-creation, and continue each other’s artistic endeavors. Monet meets mini-Monet!
Tech Time-Travel: Imagine if screen time came with a “Mindfulness Meter.” Earn extra minutes by answering a pop quiz on what the cat was doing in the background.
Breath-Sticker Blast: Stick “Breathing Buddy” stickers on unsuspecting objects. Suddenly, the teddy bear or the lunchbox becomes a reminder to take a calm breath!
Reflect-a-Rama: At bedtime, have a “Reflect-a-Rama.” Share the best and silliest moments of the day, giving each one a rating out of 10 laughter points.
Emoticon Extravaganza: Introduce “Emoticon Expressions.” Draw funny faces to represent emotions, making it a game of guessing the feeling.
Weather Whispers: Pretend the weather is a secret message from nature. “Today’s forecast: giggles with a chance of jumping in puddles.”
Puzzle-Stravaganza: Turn puzzle time into “Puzzle-Stravaganza.” Each piece is a tiny victory, and finishing the puzzle is like winning a mindfulness medal!
Breathing Sticker Wars: Launch a “Breathing Sticker Wars” challenge. Stick stickers on each other and see who can stay calm the longest without bursting into laughter.
Hiking Hijinks: On a nature hike, pretend the trees are giving high-fives, and the rocks are secret agents. Nature is the best comedy show in town!
Sleepytime Safari: Bedtime becomes a “Sleepytime Safari.” The goal: spot the sleepiest animal before drifting off to dreamland.
Bedtime Boogie: Create a “Bedtime Boogie” routine. Dance out the day’s energy before settling down for a night of sweet dreams.
Emotion Explosion: Make a game of expressing emotions. Turn it into an “Emotion Explosion” where feelings burst out in colorful confetti!
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
Build AI Apps with No-Code Software – FREE Webinar – 4th graders & up – Saturday July 29 @ 11am
Here is a fun & free VIRTUAL workshop this weekend. While young kids (ideal for 4th to 8th graders) will enjoy learning to build AI apps with NO code, I hope the rest of us can play with them and appreciate the simplicity of such tools! In simple words, all are welcome to register and attend!
Disclaimer: Natural Pediatrics and UT Dallas are not responsible for the content presented in the webinar – we request the parents to watch the content & messages closely.
Anxiety, my friend, is like having a flock of butterflies in your tummy but on steroids. It’s that feeling of worry, fear, or unease that can make your heart race and your mind spin like a tilt-a-whirl. Now, let’s see how anxiety likes to put on its show in kids:
Worries that stick like glue: Kids with anxiety might have worries that cling to them like peanut butter on a sandwich. Whether it’s about school, friendships, or even everyday activities, those worries can take hold and refuse to let go.
The great “What if?” parade: Anxiety loves to throw a big “What if?” party in kids’ minds. They start imagining all sorts of worst-case scenarios. “What if I fail the test?” “What if nobody likes me?” It’s like their imagination goes into overdrive, and the worries become a never-ending loop.
Anxiety can turn even the calmest kid into a bundle of nerves. They might fidget, tap their feet, or even have trouble sitting still. It’s like they’re trying to shake off those anxious feelings, but it’s not so easy.
Kids with anxiety sometimes do the “avoidance shuffle.” They might avoid certain situations or activities that trigger their anxiety. It’s like their brain hits the panic button, and they try to steer clear of anything that makes them feel uncomfortable or scared.
Anxiety can be a sneaky thief that steals peaceful nights of sleep. Kids might struggle to fall asleep, wake up frequently, or have restless nights filled with anxious dreams. It’s like their minds just won’t take a break.
Anxiety can come with a team of sidekicks, like tummyaches, headaches, or even dizziness. It’s like anxiety throws a little party in their bodies and invites all these physical symptoms along for the ride.
In some cases, anxiety can trigger intense panic attacks in kids. It’s like their body goes into overdrive, and they experience rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, and a sense of impending doom.
Personality plays a part. Some kids are just wired to be anxiety-prone. Maybe they’re super cautious or worrywarts from birth. It’s like their brains are a little extra sensitive to the anxiety bug.
Genetics. Yeah, it’s like playing a game of DNA roulette. If anxiety disorders run in the family, your kid might be carrying that anxiety torch. Blame it on the genes!
Life experiences can also crank up the anxiety volume. Losing a loved one, dealing with a major illness, or going through a traumatic experience—these things can trigger anxiety in kids.
Brain chemistry. Some scientists think that imbalances in certain brain chemicals, like serotonin and norepinephrine, can stir up anxiety. It’s like the brain is trying to play a symphony, but the conductor is a bit wonky. Gotta get those chemicals back in harmony!
Now, here are some stats. Did you know that anxiety disorders are the kings and queens of mental health disorders in kids and teens? Around 31.9% of kids between 3 and 17 have danced with an anxiety disorder at some point. It’s like a party that no one wants an invitation to! And here’s a jaw-dropper: anxiety disorders have been on the rise lately. Between 2003 and 2017, there was a whopping 23% increase in anxiety disorders among kids. It’s like anxiety decided to take a victory lap around the playground.
Now, let’s talk about some cool tricks to bring down anxiety levels in kids.
Exercise is like a magic potion for anxiety. It’s like giving anxiety a one-two punch! When those kiddos get moving, their brains release these awesome chemicals called endorphins. It’s like a mood-boosting superhero squad! Plus, exercise helps them sleep better, and well-rested kids are anxiety’s worst enemy.
Relaxation techniques are like secret weapons against anxiety. Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga are like Jedi mind tricks for their little minds. They teach kids how to find their Zen, even when the world feels a bit wobbly.
Now, here’s a therapy trick: cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT. It’s like having a superhero therapist guiding your kid through anxiety battles. CBT teaches them how to rewire their brains and challenge those anxious thoughts. It’s like turning those “What if?” monsters into “I got this!”.
Let’s not forget the power of supportive relationships. Having parents, teachers, and friends who’ve got their back is like a force field against anxiety. It’s like having a cheering squad that says, “You’re not alone, kid, we’re in this together!”
If you suspect your little one might be wrestling with anxiety, don’t sweat it. Talk to a doctor or a mental health pro — they’re the real experts in this quest. Early intervention is key to helping your kiddo conquer anxiety!
Oh, and here’s an exercise for you, super-parents! Take a moment to unleash your inner kid. Yup, that’s right. Find a cozy spot, put on some goofy music, and have a silly dance-off with your little anxiety warrior. Trust me, laughter is the kryptonite to anxiety!
Now, let’s shine the spotlight on anxiety’s partner in crime—dealing with it in kids and teens. Anxiety and its BFF, depression, often go hand in hand. They’re like those inseparable besties who never leave each other’s side. So, keep an eye out for any signs of depression in your kiddo too.
Oh, here’s another mind-blowing fact: anxiety disorders can make school a real challenge for our little heroes. They might struggle with concentration, social situations, or even making it through the day without feeling overwhelmed. So, don’t hesitate to team up with teachers and school staff. They can be your sidekicks in creating a supportive environment for your anxious kiddo.
Remember, you’ve got this, parents! With a dash of love, a pinch of understanding, and a sprinkle of patience, you can help your little anxiety warrior navigate this crazy world. So, keep fighting the good fight, keep advocating for your kiddo, and remember, you’re their ultimate ally.
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
So, what’s up with ADHD in kids? Well, it seems like ADHD is on the rise! Did you know that approximately 5-10% of children worldwide are affected by ADHD? Yeah, it’s like a secret club, but not the kind you wanna join voluntarily. And get this, boys are more likely to have ADHD than girls. It’s like the universe decided to make it a boys’ club.
The exact causes of ADHD are still a bit of a mystery, but we’ve got a few ideas.
Genetics seem to play a key part. Yeah, it’s like a family affair. If Uncle Babu had it and your cousin Pinky has it, there’s a good chance it’s gonna make an appearance in your family tree too. Blame it on the genes!
Brain chemistry is also in the mix. Those kids with ADHD might have some wonky levels of brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine. It’s like their brains are throwing a party and these chemicals are the DJ spinning the tunes. Sometimes they get a little too hyped up.
Prenatal and birth complications can also increase the risk of ADHD. So, ladies, put down that cigarette and step away from the alcohol, ’cause exposure to tobacco and alcohol during pregnancy can up the chances of your little one having ADHD. It’s like a game of Russian roulette, but with baby brains.
And let’s not forget about the environment. Lead exposure has been linked to a higher risk of ADHD. So, kids, if you see any suspicious-looking paint chips, do yourself a favor and resist the urge to snack on them.
So, how to tackle this ADHD beast? Well, we’ve got a few tricks up our sleeve:
First off, we’ve got the power of omega-3 fatty acids. Studies have shown that getting enough omega-3s can help improve those ADHD symptoms. So, grab some fishy friends like salmon or load up on flaxseeds. Your brain will be doing a happy dance in no time!
Next up, exercise! Yeah, you heard me right. Get moving and grooving. Exercise is like a superhero for focus and concentration. It’s a natural stress-buster too. So, go play. God knows, you might even get a moment of peace!
Oh, and let’s not forget about the importance of sleep. We all know what happens when we don’t get enough shut-eye. Well, for kids with ADHD, it’s like multiplying that chaos by ten. So, set up a bedtime routine, dim the lights, and tuck ’em in. A good night’s sleep can work wonders.
Now, here comes the hard part—diet. Yeah, I know, it’s like asking a kid to give up their sugar rush. A healthy diet can make a big difference. Say no to processed junk and sugary foods. especially sodas and fruit juice. . Load ’em up with fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. It’s like giving their brains a power-up!
Caffeine and alcohol are no-no’s for teens with ADHD. I hope you are not giving it to kids. It’s like adding fuel to the fire. So, save the coffee for the adults and keep the booze out of their reach.
Now, I’ve got a secret weapon for you—structure! Yeah, kids with ADHD thrive on routines. It’s like their superpower.
Set regular bed times, wake them up at the same time every day, and make sure they have regular meals. It’s like creating a blueprint for success, my friend!
Let’s not forget the power of positive reinforcement. Kids with ADHD need some extra love and encouragement. So, when they accomplish something great, shower them with praise or reward them with a little something special. It’s like giving their self-esteem a boost and showing them they’re alright.
Now, let’s tackle stress. Stress can really amp up those ADHD symptoms! Get those kids involved in stress-busting activities like yoga, meditation, or even just taking a nature walk.
Now, parents, I’ve got a fun exercise for you. Take a moment to breathe. Yeah, I know, life gets crazy, but you gotta take care of yourselves too. Find a quiet corner, close your eyes, and take a deep breath. Inhale… exhale… Ahh, doesn’t that feel nice? Remember, you’re superheroes too!
So, if you suspect your little one might have ADHD, don’t fret. Talk to your doctor. In the end, ADHD might be a puzzle we’re still trying to solve, but with a little humor, some natural remedies, and a whole lot of love, we can make life a little brighter for those incredible kids with ADHD.
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
Rates for anxiety and depression grew 3 percentage points between 2003 and 2012. By 2019, one in five children ages 3-17 had a reported mental, emotional, developmental, or behavioral disorder, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Cause: The growing use of digital media, increasing academic pressure, and limited access to mental health care, rising income inequality, racism, gun violence, and climate change. (Surgeon General’s report)
According to CDC, about 8.7% of children ages 3-17 years old were diagnosed with ADHD at the time of the survey. About 7.8% of this age group had a current anxiety diagnosis, followed by 7% with a behavioral problem diagnosis. Depression affected about 3.4% of surveyed children ages 3-17. (between 2016-2019)
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, mental disorders can contribute to substance use and substance use disorders. About 4% of kids ages 12 to 17 reported having a substance use disorder in the past year according to CDC data collected in 2018-2019.
Takeaway for a parent:
Control screen time
Talk to you child about mental health
Go for nature walks
Teach your kids to ask for help from their doctor/counselor/elder
Take away money source to curb addiction
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
Anxiety: Anxiety is a common mental health challenge among children in the United States. Preventative measures include teaching coping skills, promoting physical activity and healthy sleep habits, and providing a supportive and stable home environment.
Depression: Depression can have a major impact on a child’s overall well-being. Preventative measures include teaching positive coping skills, promoting physical activity, and ensuring access to mental health resources and support.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): ADHD can impact a child’s ability to focus and succeed in school and other activities. Preventative measures include providing structure, setting clear expectations, and exploring behavioral therapy or medication as appropriate.
Conduct disorder: Conduct disorder is a type of behavior disorder that can involve aggression and other antisocial behaviors. Preventative measures include providing positive reinforcement for good behavior, fostering strong relationships with positive role models, and seeking support from mental health professionals.
Substance abuse: Substance abuse can have a devastating impact on a child’s mental and physical health. Preventative measures include promoting healthy activities, monitoring substance use, and addressing any underlying mental health conditions.
Eating disorders: Eating disorders can cause physical and mental health problems. Preventative measures include promoting healthy body image, teaching positive coping skills, and ensuring access to mental health resources and support.
Trauma: Trauma, such as abuse or neglect, can have a lasting impact on mental health. Preventative measures include providing a supportive and stable home environment, addressing any underlying mental health conditions, and seeking support from mental health professionals.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): OCD is a type of anxiety disorder that involves repetitive thoughts and behaviors. Preventative measures include teaching coping skills, providing a supportive and stable home environment, and seeking support from mental health professionals.
Schizophrenia: Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that can affect a child’s ability to think, feel, and behave normally. Preventative measures include early identification and treatment of symptoms, providing a supportive and stable home environment, and seeking support from mental health professionals.
Bipolar disorder: Bipolar disorder is a type of mood disorder that can involve periods of mania and depression. Preventative measures include promoting healthy sleep and physical activity, monitoring for changes in mood and behavior, and seeking support from mental health professionals.
Preventative measures include promoting positive coping skills, ensuring access to mental health resources and support, and addressing any underlying conditions or stressors. Seeking support from mental health professionals can be particularly helpful in preventing and treating mental health issues in children.
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
Here is a list of some popular Japanese philosophical terms and their short meanings:
Wabi-sabi: Acceptance of transience and imperfection; finding beauty in the imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete.
Zen: A form of Buddhism that emphasizes meditation and self-awareness as a means of achieving spiritual enlightenment.
Shinto: Japan’s indigenous religion, which emphasizes the worship of nature spirits and ancestor spirits.
Bushido: The code of conduct and way of life of the samurai, emphasizing loyalty, respect, courage, and self-discipline.
Mono no aware: The awareness of the transience of things and the bittersweet beauty of life.
Ikigai: The reason for being, the connection between one’s passion, mission, vocation and profession.
Yūgen: A profound, mysterious sense of the beauty of the universe and the sad beauty of human suffering.
Hara: The center of the body and mind, a connection to the earth, the source of inner strength and balance.
Mokomokai: The mindfulness of the present moment and the interconnectedness of all things.
Shugyo: A spiritual discipline and the pursuit of self-improvement through ascetic practices.
These are just a few examples of Japanese philosophical terms, and there are many more that reflect the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Japan. Many of these concepts are rooted in Buddhism and Shintoism, which have had a profound influence on Japanese culture. These terms have been adopted and adapted in various ways by different cultures, and are often used in the context of mindfulness, self-improvement, and personal development.
A state of present and personal awareness which encompasses cognitive, emotional, and sensory functions to empower an individual to respond productively to the demands of daily life.
It is not a religion, a silver bullet or a short-term solution.
If there is one gift one can give a newborn’s parent, it is a good night sleep. On World Sleep Day, we are listing guaranteed tips that will not only ensure that you relish a deep slumber at night but also make sure that you are more energetic and productive during your waking hours:
1. Right pillow – Choose a pillow that supports the natural curve of your neck and is not too fat or not too flat. This will help you wake up without being tired or with a stiff neck in the morning.
2. Sleeping position – To not twist your neck, avoid sleeping on your stomach. Instead, sleep on your side with your nose up with the center of your body.
3. Good mattress – A good mattress such as spring mattress, foam mattress, coir mattress, memory foam mattress, orthopedic mattress etc is crucial in achieving a sound sleep because it not only improves sleep quality but also reduces back pain, shoulder pain and back stiffness with the right support to the body that reinforces an uninterrupted sleep. On the other hand, you can also use air-tight, plastic, dust-proof covers to seal your mattress, box springs and pillows against mold, dust mite droppings, and other allergy triggers that can lead to lousy shut-eye.
4. Eat and drink fluids wisely – While it is advisable to finish eating dinner at least an hour before bed, it is also recommended to not overload your digestive system with heavy foods and big meals before sleeping. Instead, opt for a light evening snack as it will affect how well you sleep at night.
Although hydration is vital, it is wise to not drink any fluids 1–2 hours before going to bed. This is to reduce the chances of excessive urination during the night which affects sleep quality and daytime energy.
Don’t go to bed hungry or stuffed. In particular, avoid heavy or large meals within a couple of hours of bedtime. Your discomfort might keep you up.
Nicotine, caffeine and alcohol deserve caution, too. The stimulating effects of nicotine and caffeine take hours to wear off and can wreak havoc on quality sleep. And even though alcohol might make you feel sleepy, it can disrupt sleep later in the night.
5. Lower the lights – Optimize your bedroom environment by dimming the light levels around your home 2 to 3 hours before bedtime. Diminishing the noise and lights and making the bedroom a quiet, relaxing, clean and enjoyable place signals the brain to make melatonin which is the hormone that brings on sleep and results in improved sleep quality that ensures long-term health benefits.
6. Sick to a sleep schedule – Set aside no more than eight hours for sleep. The recommended amount of sleep for a healthy adult is at least seven hours. Most people don’t need more than eight hours in bed to achieve this goal.
Go to bed and get up at the same time every day. Try to limit the difference in your sleep schedule on weeknights and weekends to no more than one hour. Being consistent reinforces your body’s sleep-wake cycle.
If you don’t fall asleep within about 20 minutes, leave your bedroom and do something relaxing. Read or listen to soothing music. Go back to bed when you’re tired. Repeat as needed.
7. Physical exercise – Regular physical activity can promote better sleep. Avoid being active too close to bedtime, however.
Spending time outside every day might be helpful, too.
8. Manage your worries – Try to resolve your worries or concerns before bedtime. Jot down what’s on your mind and then set it aside for tomorrow.
Stress management might help. Start with the basics, such as getting organized, setting priorities and delegating tasks. Meditation also can ease anxiety.
Source: Internet & Others
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
Photo by Muhammadtaha Ibrahim Ma’aji on Pexels.com
1. Sleep
The more time you allocate to resting, the more efficient your performance will be when it comes to ticking items off your list. Getting between 7-9 hours of sleep each night is crucial to stay focused the next day. This will automatically also keep you motivated throughout the day.
2. Water consumption
Feeling irritable is a common consequence suffered due to dehydration. Drinking 1.5-2 liters of water is essential, especially if the majority of your day is spent staring at the computer and there is a lack of high-intensity physical activities. Drinking enough water relieves fatigue, promotes weight loss, flushes out toxins, boosts immune system, prevents cramps and sprains and improves skin complexion.
3. Exercise
Like sleep, many adults say they cannot find the time to exercise. But exercising is the best natural remedy for stress relief. Increased heart rate due to exercise pumps oxygen and nutrients to your tissues and helps improve your cardiovascular system. Not only will you feel better, your sculpted, toned and muscular body will also thank you for it.
4. Impact on diet
The popularity of take-away foods, sugars, high-energy, and snack foods has risen over the past few decades, correlating with the growth of depression and anxiety. The regularity of eating and portion control should also be taken into consideration when considering a dietary modification. Eating a large meal before bed is likely to make for a very dazed wake the next morning, which is a result of your blood sugar spiking and crashing before you even wake up, resulting in fatigue.
5. Feel positive
Improving confidence is a key component of a healthy mental state, and dressing well helps foster a more positive mental outlook. Everyone wants to be remembered when making that first impression. Being well-dressed is a small step investment that creates momentous benefits for your mental health.
6. Stay prepared
Time management is not only about ticking items off the list, but also having enough time left for things that are important to you. Each morning, try focusing on three priorities for the day. Keep bringing yourself back to them, by removing all distractions.
7. Volunteering
Previous research indicates that volunteering is linked to good mental health and emotional well-being. In many cases, volunteering gave people a sense of fulfillment and purpose which, in turn, positively impacted their motivation, commitment, and overall mental well-being.
8. Set goals
Setting goals that are specific, challenging, and achievable will improve your performance as you are less likely to be distracted. The ‘feel-good’ chemical released in your brain when you achieve something is dopamine. Each time you check something off your checklist, you get a shot of dopamine.
9. Talk it out
Take some time out for social interaction — whether it is a chat about the weekend, or offering assistance to a teammate or even a heart-to-heart with a friend. Voicing how you feel will assist in putting problems in perspective and also boost your morale.
Source: Internet & Others
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
Are you calm or hostile? Stressed or social? Optimistic or pessimistic? Recent studies have found that our personality determines and affects our health. Our personality can kill us or prolong our lives, it can give us heart disease or strengthen our immune system.
Personalities Types
Personality types
The hostile type
The main characteristics of Type A personality are impatience and hostility. These may increase the risk of heart disease. Hostile people tend to overeat, smoke excessively, and lack physical activity much more than other types. Hostility increases the chance of being overweight in middle age, blood pressure, and high cholesterol. A recent study on the subject found that hostile types tend to develop irregular heartbeat and die before the age of 50. Most of these problems can be related to high levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), as well as inflammation of the coronary artery walls (which supply blood to the heart), increasing the risk of a heart attack.
The key is to learn how to communicate clearly and how to control anger and negative emotions. When you get angry, try asking yourself four questions: Is this really important to me? Does what I feel match reality? Do I have the power to change the situation in a positive way? Is taking such action worth the effort?
Meditation, deep breathing and yoga can also help.
The impulsive type
While hostile type A’s are often characterized by competitiveness, a desire to succeed, a sense of urgency and stress, and a tendency towards uncalculated risks, even non-hostile types can suffer from a similar impulsivity that isn’t good for health. The impulsive type is one that does not base decisions on rationality; they may identify an opportunity as being exclusively fun without weighing the pros and cons. The impulsive type may ignore health risks or not take them into account, thereby harming themselves. This personality type can lead to all kinds of harmful activities such as alcohol and drug abuse as well as compulsive gambling.
The calm type
If you’re a Type B, it means that you are calm, take life easy and face stress without losing it. This indicates a high quality of life, and a low probability of having panic attacks, heart disease and infections caused by a low immune system. The more relaxed a person is, the better their health since the ability to cope with stress is a sure recipe for longevity. Researchers say relaxation helps the heart, digestive system, and blood function properly.
The extroverted type
Extroverts who are involved in community life and have strong social connections, reap health benefits. An examination of 148 studies published in the online journal PLoS Medicine found that adults who live rich social lives improve their chances of survival by about 50 percent. A study published in 2009 on behavioral science perspectives found that widespread social support improves individual coping skills, promotes healthy behavior and observance of a medical schedule. It was found that the connection to people reduces stress and improves the function of the immune system. One of the most prominent explanations for this influence stems from elements of involvement in the lives of others and acceptance of a position. For example: How can I feel bad for myself when this ‘so and so’ is going through this.
The people pleaser type
Those who are eager to please are type C and are characterized mainly by conformity and passivity. It can be good when they are required to demonstrate high discipline, but most times they do not initiate treatment or help. People pleasers tend to accept their fate as unavoidable and fall easily into despair and helplessness. It means that others must motivate them and make sure they take care of themselves; otherwise, they simply will not keep their health. If they have a medical problem they may complain, hoping someone else will offer them a solution, or they will remain so passive that they won’t admit they’re hurting, even if the situation is severe.
The depressive and stressed type
People who are stuck on negative emotions are afraid to express themselves in social situations, and compared to optimistic people, they have a threefold increased risk of heart problems, according to a recent study in the journal Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes.
Type D personality was defined in the 1990s as characterized by negative feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and loneliness. These types of people will often expect the worst, have difficulty acquiring friends and often suffer from low self-esteem and over-judgment. They are tense, chronically angry, and overactive in stressful situations. They tend to hide their feelings, because of fear of rejection. The depressive type is highly to suffer from obesity and compulsive eating, as well as drug use.
Because they have no outlet for stress and stress, they suffer from high levels of cortisol, which increases blood pressure and can cause chronic inflammation of the circulatory system, heart failure, and even death. The problem is that they often prefer not to discuss worrying symptoms with their doctor.
The optimistic type
A study published in 2010 in Clinical Practice & Epidemiology in Mental Health concluded 15 years of tracking the health of 500 men; according to it, the chances of optimistic people dying from heart-related health events are 50 percent lower than that of pessimists.
In principle, optimists enjoy a high quality of life and may be considered “more resilient” in coping with stress and life challenges. If they encounter a problem, they are able to cope with it better and therefore suffer less from symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. In contrast, the “glass half empty” types tend to be depressed and anxious.
The researchers note, of course, that optimism should also be proportionate, as optimists can sometimes think of themselves as invincible.
The self-healer type
The self-healing personality as Howard Friedman, a professor of psychology at the University of California, calls it, is expressed by people who are curious, strong, attentive, and conscientious. These characteristics are expressed in the joy of life, emotional balance, and strong social ties. These positive emotions prevent hormonal responses of stress and encourage the adoption of healthy behavior patterns, such as adherence to consistent physical activity, proper nutrition, and avoidance of cigarettes, drugs, and alcohol.
To conclude
Even if you can’t unequivocally identify your personality type, you can probably identify a tendency. Ask yourself how your temperament affects your health condition – if it contributes to it, or on the contrary if it detracts from it. If you find that your health is suffering because of your personality it’s time to take matters into your hands and take care of yourself!
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
No parent wants to see their child sad or frightened, but more and more children in the Western world are now coping with stress and anxiety. For the most part, parents of children who suffer from these feelings are at a loss while at the same time they look for every possible way to help their children cope with this situation, sometimes to no avail. If your children are suffering from anxiety, or you know parents of such children, you should read the following article, which highlights some of the common causes of anxiety, signs the child is suffering and how to cope with it so that you can be the best parent you can be and help them cope.
“Ever having been diagnosed with either anxiety or depression” among children aged 6-17 years increased from 5.4% in 2003 to 8% in 2007 and to 8.4% in 2011–2012.
“Ever having been diagnosed with anxiety” among children aged 6-17 years increased from 5.5% in 2007 to 6.4% in 2011–2012.
“Ever having been diagnosed with depression” among children aged 6-17 years did not change between 2007 (4.7%) and 2011–2012 (4.9%).
Common Causes of Anxiety in Children:
1. A significant change in the family – One of the main causes of anxiety and depression among children is a significant change in the family – divorce, death, moving, and even birth can undermine your child’s peace of mind. Think about these significant changes and understand that they can shake your child’s stability and make them feel insecure, leading to confusion and eventually to anxiety and depression.
2. Parental instability – Another reason many children experience anxiety and depression is parental instability, which means that the parent’s life is unstable and as a result, the children’s security is undermined. Money, feelings of depression, family turmoil or fighting between parents can cause your children to experience a tremendous sense of helplessness because they want to help, but they don’t have the means to do so, thereby making the road to anxiety and depression very short.
3. Packed schedules – Today most children have packed schedules; From school through to private lessons to spending time with friends, these are just some of the activities that many children take part in. These children tend to run between activities which can cause great stress. Even if they seem happy and enjoy the activity load, in most cases they need occasional quiet and rest.
4. Educational pressure – the school curriculum can be a burden on many children, along with the number of assignments and tests given throughout the year. Therefore, this is one of the causes of stress among many children who are anxious about succeeding in school. Such pressure is most common among teenagers and children who are afraid to make mistakes and fail or be imperfect.
5. Popularity – In today’s reality, the need to show off and be seen exists in everyone, even in many children. For the most part, being shunned or even simply not popular can be a major factor of depression in children. As they grow, most of them want to integrate and feel a sense of belonging to a particular group, and this pressure can sometimes be agonizing.
6. Bullying – This common problem affects many children very strongly, especially in the mental-emotional aspect, and sometimes can also cause physical damage. Children who struggle with bullying often feel embarrassed that they are targets, and as a result may hide the abuse from their parents and teachers for fear of drawing attention to themselves and exposing their weaknesses.
7. News – Everywhere in the world there are media outlets that report on various events that happen around the world, and this information, which can sometimes be difficult, is exposed to many children. News headlines and images depicting natural disasters, terrorist attacks, violence, and more can cause anxiety among children. When children see and hear bad news, they may worry that something bad can happen to them or someone they love.
8. A scary film or book – today’s movies, television, and literature have become more blunt and speculative, therefore, fiction stories can cause distress or anxiety among some children. Children are often affected by frightening, violent, or disturbing scenes that are shown in a movie or written in a book. Some may even be more sensitive. Try to understand who your child is, how sensitive he/she is, and what scares them, and limit the content they are exposed to based on this knowledge.
Causes, signs, and ways of dealing with anxiety in children:
Physical signs
They often complain of headaches or stomachaches, although there is no medical reason behind the pain.
Refuse to eat snacks or meals at school.
Don’t use restrooms other than those at home.
They are restless, nervous, hyperactive or distracted.
They begin to tremble or sweat in threatening situations.
They have constant difficulty falling asleep.
Their muscles are tense all the time.
Emotional signs
They often cry.
They are overly sensitive.
They are angry for no apparent reason.
They are afraid to make small mistakes.
They suffer from excessive fears (natural disasters, bees, etc.).
Worry about what happens in the future.
Suffer from recurring nightmares about the loss of a parent or other loved one.
Their worries and fears interfere with them having child fun.
They suffer from tantrums.
They are preoccupied with obsessive thoughts or suffering compulsive behaviors (finger tapping, hand washing, etc.).
Behavioral signs
They always ask, “What if?”
They refrain from participating in class activities, even outside school hours.
They are quiet or preoccupied with something while they are supposed to work with others.
They Refuse to go to school.
They often are alone during recess.
They refuse to talk to people in public places.
They constantly ask permission from parents, teachers, and friends.
They say, “I can’t ” without a real reason.
They find it difficult to part from people who are close to them, even if only for a short time, and they respond to this separation in an exaggerated and unusual way.
Ways of coping with children with anxiety
Managing Symptoms: Staying Healthy
Being healthy is important for all children, and can be especially important for children with depression or anxiety. In addition to getting the right treatment, leading a healthy lifestyle can play a role in managing symptoms of depression or anxiety. Here are some healthy behaviors that may help:
Having a healthy eating plan centered on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes (beans, peas, and lentils), lean protein sources, and nuts and seeds
Not one of us is interested in seeing their child anxious and sad, and the best way to help them overcome it is actually to teach them to control these feelings. Talk to your child about their feelings and the panic attacks they suffer from, try to understand how they begin, their triggers and the symptoms. When you learn to identify them, they can be better controlled. Of course, the beginning will be difficult and the self-control will improve over time and practice.
2. Don’t avoid certain things just because they can trigger your child’s anxiety
Preventing situations that cause anxiety in children can be an effective short-term solution, however, this won’t help your child develop the coping skills needed to deal with anxiety in the long term. If you constantly come to your child’s rescue when they are faced with something that causes them anxiety, they’ll learn that they have someone that will deal with their anxiety for them. This is why you need to allow your child to experience these situations and teach them how to deal with and soothe panic attacks.
3. Present the situation in a positive but realistic light
You can’t sugar coat your child’s fear and make them believe they’ll never happen. Whether it’s failing a test, a visit to the dentist, or bullying, these are things your child really might have to face, and they can be scary, you, however, need to show them that you are confident in the ability to deal with these situations. The intention here is to reassure the children that they will understand that any experience they undergo, good or bad, is temporary and can be controlled. Over time, their level of anxiety will decline and they will rely on the confidence you place on them.
4. Respect their feelings but don’t empower them
It’s important to understand that respecting their feelings doesn’t mean you are approving or agreeing with them. If your child is afraid, for example, to go to the doctor because they are scared of shots, don’t undermine this fear, but at the same time don’t increase it. Just listen to your child, be empathic and help them understand why they are afraid, and then encourage them and make them feel that they can conquer their fears. Remember, the message you want to convey is “I know you’re scared, it’s fine, I’m here and I’m going to help you through this.”
5. Don’t ask leading questions
You should encourage your children to talk about their feelings and anxieties, but try not to use leading questions : “Are you afraid of the test next week?” Or “Are you afraid of visiting the doctor?” To avoid asking them questions that will increase their anxiety just ask them open questions such as: “How do you feel about the test you have next week?”
6. Encourage them to accept their anxieties
You must show your children that you appreciate the effort their putting into coping with the depression and anxiety they experience, which will encourage them to continue to do so until the situation changes. Remember that your children cope with anxiety attacks every day, and with your support, their feelings will improve and eventually they’ll be able to overcome their fears.
7. Be a role model in dealing with anxiety
The best way to help your children deal with anxiety is by showing them how you deal with it. Children, especially at a young age, absorb much of the behaviors of their environment and especially their parents. If they constantly hear their parents complain and see them unable to cope with their stress and fears they will adopt these same inabilities. We aren’t saying you need to pretend to not have fears or feels stress, but we are saying that you should be exhibiting the correct way to deal with it
Closing words
Every parent wants their child to be happy, so many parents find it difficult to help their children and understand them when they are suffering from anxiety. We believe that thanks to the knowledge you’ve acquired here, you’ll be able to identify signs of anxiety in your children and know how to help them cope with it. In addition, you may want to consider providing your child with professional care, such as therapy.
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
Before you say something bad, think about those who can’t talk and say something back.
Before you complain about the taste or variety of your food, remember there are starving people in the world.
Before you yell at your partner, think of how lonely some people feel as they go to sleep in an empty bed.
Before you complain about the state of things today, think about all the people who never got to see this day.Before you get upset because the house is a mess, remember that there are people who don’t have a roof over their head.
Before you let traffic and long commutes irritate you, think about how fortunate you are to have a job and a car.
Before you point an accusing finger at someone, remember that you’re not perfect, and you make mistakes too.
And the most important rule of them all:
Before you let a depressing thought ruin your mood, put a smile on your face and be thankful you’re alive!
Source: Internet & Others
The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Always make sure to seek a doctor or a professional’s advice before proceeding with the home treatment plan.
If you want to make your child independent and confident, follow these steps :
1 Don’t feed your child let him eat by himself. If they starve, they will develop a sense of hunger.
2. Let he decide how much food she wants to eat. That will develop a sense of satiety and will avid over-eating.
3 Let them wear their clothes on their own. You may help by suggesting if needed.
4 Let them decide which color of things they want. This helps them develop decision making power.
5 Let them pack their school bag if they forget anything let them face situation so from very young age they become responsible.
6 In school , if they have not completed their homework, please do not call other parents. Instead tell your child to work it with friends or teachers.
7 Never ever sit with your child when he is doing homework . Ask the child to ask for help if needed. That will develop confidence.
8 Whenever you make monthly budget or taxes, involve your child. Discuss your income and expense and the need to save.
9. Let them make their own decisions in set boundary , it develops freedom.
10. Allow them a chance to voice their opinion on weighty matters. They will develop their sense of reasoning.
