Parenting a Child with Anxiety

Parenting is a beautiful and joyous endeavor; however, it is not without its struggles. Every child is different, and their needs differ. In her article, experienced professional counselor Theresa Westfall touches on the subject of parenting a child with anxiety and how it can feel overwhelming. Theresa gives insightful tips to help guide parents through these stressful moments.

First Step: Regulating Emotions

She discusses that helping your child regulate their emotions will only work if your emotions are regulated. As the parent, it’s crucial to calm your anxieties before helping your child through theirs. Like on an airplane, they tell you to place the oxygen mask on yourself before helping your child. This instance is no different; it is necessary to calm yourself first. Some effective coping strategies are cold compresses on palms, wrists, and the back of the neck.

Second Step: Reflective or Active Listening

The next step that Theresa gives is to listen to your child actively. Ask questions to help them share their feelings and show them you understand and care. It’s essential that they feel heard. Saying phrases like “it sounds like…” and repeat the summary of what they said. The goal as their parent is to validate their feelings without judgment.

Third Step: Reframe the Anxiety

Reframing anxiety means separating their anxious feelings from themselves. This technique involves encouraging the child to see their anxiety as an external entity. Doing this can make things less overwhelming for them. Theresa gives an example of how to reframe the anxiety of a child who is anxious about a storm. Instead of telling the child, “You shouldn’t feel scared,” you could say something like, “It sounds like your anxiety is really focused on the storm right now.”

Steer clear of Reassurance Traps

Parents never want their children to suffer or be afraid, so they do what they can to reassure them that everything will be okay. However, consistently giving your child reassurance when they seek it is a common way for parents to increase their child’s anxiety unintentionally. Though it may seem helpful, telling your child everything will be okay can actually intensify their anxiety. Instead of relying on constant reassurances, focus on empowering your child to face their fear. Remind them that they will grow stronger when they do.

Consulting a Professional

Parenting is an impossible task, and when your child suffers from anxiety, it can be even more difficult. Reaching out to a therapist to help support both you and your child can provide invaluable guidance. Seeking help when in need will help you and your child and show your child that it is okay to ask for help, therefore being the example. Parenting is the most incredible journey of growth, which shapes both lives in the most profound ways. It is okay to ask for help and guidance along the way.

 

Read Theresa’s Blog Article By Clicking the Link: How to Help Your Anxious Child