Source: The Anxiety Disorders Association of British Columbia
Anxiety and stress are something we all face in our lives. Sometimes, however, this anxiety can overwhelm us and significantly interfere with the quality of our lives. Any of us and any of our children can get into difficulties with excess anxiety.
Four things to remember about anxiety;
• Anxiety disorders are the most common type of mental health problem.
• 1 in 4 people will be affected by anxiety during their lifetime.
• Anxiety Disorders are characterised by excessive fear, anxiety, and distress.
• Anxiety Disorders can interfere with daily life by impacting work, school, family and relationships
It is important to talk to children and teens about anxiety as they may not be able to recognise anxiety for what it is; they may think something is “wrong” with them. Children may focus on the physical symptoms of anxiety (e.g. stomach aches). Teens may think they are weird, weak, out of control, or even going crazy! These thoughts may lead them to feel more anxious and self-conscious. Therefore, the first step is to teach your child about anxiety and how to recognise it. Self-awareness is essential!
How to do it: There are three steps to introducing the topic of anxiety to your child:
Step 1:Encourage your child to open up about any fears and worries, offer reassurance, show acceptance and stay calm, this will help your child to stay calm too!
Step 2:Teach your child about anxiety. Anxiety is normal, everyone experiences it at times. Anxiety is not dangerous, though it may feel uncomfortable; it doesn’t last long, and will eventually decrease. Anxiety is adaptive, it helps us prepare for real danger and without it humans would not have survived as a species!
Step 3:Help your child recognise anxiety. Become a “detective” with your child and investigate anxiety. Find examples of how your child experiences anxiety in each of the three parts: physical symptoms, anxious thoughts, and avoidance behaviours. Help your child understand that anxiety, and not actual real danger, is causing him or her to miss out on important opportunities and fun events.
If anxiety is overwhelming your life or the children in your life it may be difficult for parents to address without help from a professional. For more information and strategies relating to anxiety contact Bulimba Psychology on 3899 1455, alternatively, contact the APS on 1800 333 497 or visit the APS at www.psychology.org.au or the Anxiety Disorders Association of British Columbia http://www.anxietybc.com.
