Recognise stress signs and symptoms in children

We are all under tremendous stress these days. Our world as we know it has changed dramatically. As a result, our children are vulnerable to the consequences. Many children, like adults, are currently struggling with stress.

Here is some useful information regarding stress in children, including how to help them and what to expect.

Stress symptoms in toddlers and young children

Every child is unique and will exhibit their own distinctive stress indicators. Toddlers and young children cannot effectively communicate how they feel, so it’s up to parents to watch out for unusual behaviours.

The following symptoms may indicate that your toddler or young child is stressed:

• Changes in regular sleeping and eating habits
• Emotional changes (sadness, clinginess, withdrawal, or anger)
• Sobbing or tantrums
• Nightmares and anxiety at bedtime
• Physical problems, such as headaches or stomachaches
• Tics, coughing, or bodily movements
• Relying on habits such as hair chewing or thumb-sucking
• Asking more questions (often repeatedly) and requiring reassurance

Stress Symptoms in Teens and Tweens

Stress symptoms in teens, tweens, and young adults differ from person to person and age to age, just as they do in younger children.

Your child may exhibit one or more of the following signs if they are stressed:

• Headaches
• Stomachaches
• Nausea
• Sleep disorders, including insomnia, hypersomnia, nightmares, and/or difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
• Irritability or rage
• Difficulty handling emotions in general
• Changes in social conduct; increased difficulty relating to others
• Sadness
• Changes in eating patterns
• Tics or obsessions/compulsions

What are the root causes of childhood stress?

Various things, ranging from academic concerns to a full social calendar, can induce stress in children. The most common stress causes in children aged 18 months to 18 years are listed below.

• Separation anxiety can be a significant source of stress for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. While separation anxiety is frequently a reasonable response to being separated, it can result in greater clinginess, difficulty saying goodbye, or anxiety over being separated from key caregivers.
• Children of all ages can be stressed by major family upheavals such as death, divorce, a parent’s job loss, or purchasing a new home. The combination of heightened emotions, disturbed timetables, and unexpected patterns can make even the most relaxed child feel some anxiety. Positive developments, such as the birth of a sibling, can also be stressful.
• School can be a big stressor for children, teens, tweens, and young adults. Worrying about homework or grades, managing duties, navigating difficulties with friends, bullying, or peer group pressures can all contribute to a child’s stress.
• Children live in the present and like taking the time to explore their surroundings, so overloading them with activities or rushing them from place to place might cause stress.
• Natural disasters, as well as exposure to violence can have an impact on children of all ages. Even unintentional exposure to a terrifying movie or television advertising can impact your child.

Seven ways parents can help their stressed children

1. Little pressures in life might add up to generate big stresses in children. Here are a few ways to help your child cope better with stress.
2. Maintain daily routines, such as going to school, daycare, preschool, feeding, and/or getting ready for bed. Routines are especially crucial for toddlers and young children because they make them feel in control and foster a sense of calm.
3. Allow enough time for rest breaks, naps, and activity preparation. Examine your child’s schedule to ensure enough time for them to relax and play while still making time for school work and extra murals.
4. Keep an eye on what programmes your child is watching on television. Monitor internet usage as well, as social media and cyberbullying may be major sources of stress for tweens and teens.
5. Extra one-on-one attention and a few extra daily cuddles and kisses can be beneficial to children when adjusting to change. More love and support might help your child feel more at ease and settle into new patterns.
6. Ensure that your home is a safe and comfortable space for your child. Parents who frequently fight, for example, should seek marital counselling to reduce tension in the household.
7. Teach your child stress management techniques like deep breathing and visualising relaxing sceneries. Remember that every child is unique, so select coping skills that complement their personality and temperament.

When to get help

If you have any concerns about your child, address these worries with your child’s paediatrician or healthcare provider, who may refer your child to a psychologist, who can assist your child in managing stress and establishing positive mental health habits.