How can I help my child cope with stress?
November 23, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Benjamin Meier
Dear Doctor,
My name is Christian Lauer and I am very worried about my child. My son is 10 years old and has been experiencing a lot of stress lately. He is often tired, irritable, and has difficulty concentrating. He also regularly complains of headaches and stomach aches. I am really concerned about him and I want to help him deal with this stress.
We have experienced some changes in our family life recently, which may be affecting him. My husband and I separated a few months ago and since then, my son has been living alternately with me and his father. This new situation is very stressful for him and I can see that he is suffering because of it.
I have tried talking to him about his feelings and explaining that it's okay to be sad or angry. But I can see that this alone is not enough for him. That's why I would like to know what options there are to help my child cope with this stress. Are there specific exercises or techniques that can help him relax? Should we seek professional help? I am grateful for any advice and support you can provide.
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Christian Lauer
Dear Mr. Lauer,
I fully understand that you are very worried about your son and would like to offer you some information and advice that may help you.
It is important to recognize that stress in children should be taken just as seriously as in adults. The symptoms you have observed in your son - fatigue, irritability, concentration problems, headaches, and stomach aches - are typical signs of stress. It is good that you have tried to talk to him about his feelings, but it is also important for him to learn how to cope with his stress.
There are various ways that can help your son relax. One option is relaxation exercises such as yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, or breathing techniques. These exercises can help him calm his thoughts and relax his body. There are also special apps or online courses that offer child-friendly relaxation exercises.
It may also be helpful to create a stress management plan for your son. Together with him, you could establish strategies that can help him deal with stress. These may include taking regular breaks, getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and exercising.
Regarding professional help: If you feel that despite your efforts, your son is still suffering greatly from stress, it may be useful to seek professional support. A child and adolescent psychologist or therapist can help him process his emotions and develop strategies for coping with stress. Family counseling may also be beneficial in order to better manage the new family circumstances.
I strongly recommend that you schedule an appointment with a pediatrician or child psychologist to discuss your son's situation in more detail and potentially take further steps.
I hope that my advice will be of help to you and wish you and your son all the best on this journey.
Best regards,
Benjamin Meier
