As the weeks of summer dwindle down and we prepare to return to school, children, teens, & young adults are feeling overwhelmed and stressed, due to the uncertainty of our world. For many it is creating symptoms of anxiety such as pains in the chest, stomach aches, irritability, lack of motivation, sadness, other physical pain, and mental health issues. Many caregivers are struggling to determine what to do to help their children reduce the symptoms of anxiety they are feeling. As feelings deepen and tension increase, families and young people may struggle to keep the chaos at the minimal. Unfortunately, this is going to keep the cycle perpetuating. As parents and caregivers there are many things you can do to help.
A few suggestions include:
- Set up a regular routine which includes set bedtime and wake up time
- start preparing for a “school schedule”
- limit screen time daily
- check phones and videos for appropriateness of content
- limit viewing of news and current events, especially if violent
- start wearing the mask at home, increasing the extent of time working towards 6 hours (if returning to the school building)
- schedule downtime activities away from electronics
- teach relaxation techniques
- talk to your children, have discussions about their concerns and fears
- seek help from a counselor when needed.
Holistic Counseling, Coaching, & Consulting 🙏🏻 