Stress is an inevitable part of life. Each person undergoes some or the other kind of stress at some point in their life. In the modern world there has been an increasing number of cases of stress in children.
What is Stress?
Stress can be termed as a body’s physical, chemical and emotional reaction to any overwhelming situation. It arises from any event that makes you angry, frustrated or nervous. Stress, at times, can be positive as it helps an individual to avoid danger or meet deadlines, while on the other hand, its prolonged existence can be harmful for the individual.
Stress in children
Stress among children is quite common nowadays. Children of all ages may experience stress. Children may not be able to identify their own stress and may not be able to explain them. It is up to the parents to recognise if their child is stressed and if so what are the reasons which are causing it. Usually parents could easily help children tackle their stress but in some cases professional help may be required.
What causes stress in children?
Stress caused in children can be attributed to both internal and external factors. Internal stressors may include a child’s feelings, pressures such as doing better in school etc. External stressors may include any kind of problem a child is facing at home, school or even with peers.
Common causes of stress in children
Parental problems: If there are any kinds of disputes going on among the parents, it may affect the child adversely. Frequent fights, quarrels among parents may leave the child prone to stress. Besides this, factors like alcoholism in parents etc. may also cause stress in children.
Family Problems: Major changes in life like death of someone close, shifting to a new environment or even birth of a younger sibling may cause stress in children.
Academic Pressure: Children at times feel that they may not be accepted by their parents if they perform poorly in school. This pressure to perform better in academics may cause stress in children.
Bullying: Bullying in school, home or any other place is a major factor causing stress in children. Children who are often bullied may be embarrassed about it and may not share their ordeals with anyone.
Schedules: Highly tight schedules cause stress even in adults. How can one expect it to not be a factor among children? Constantly being occupied with one activity or another can result in stress among children.
How to identify stress in children?
The following are some common signs which indicate stress in children:
- Difficulty in paying attention
- Behavioral changes
- Refraining from various activities
- Being reserved and withdrawing from family and friends
- Decreased appetite
- Bedwetting
- Nightmares
- Sleep Problems
How to help your child?
- Generate a calm, peaceful environment at home
- Talk to your children about each and everything that has been going on in their life
- Keep a tab on what your child is consuming through TV, books or social medias
- Allow your child to make his own decisions
- Encourage them in whatever they are doing
