How can I help my child deal with stress better?
December 8, 2023 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Hildegard Hirschfeld
Dear team of the online consultation,
My name is Anna Schlosser and I am the mother of a six-year-old boy named Tim. Lately, I have noticed that Tim often seems stressed and overwhelmed. He has trouble falling asleep, eats less than usual, and sometimes reacts very irritably towards me and other family members.
I am very worried about Tim and wonder how I can help him better cope with stress. I know that children nowadays are exposed to many different stressful situations, whether it be at school, in kindergarten, or even in family life. But I would like Tim to learn how to deal with it and not be constantly plagued by stress.
Are there specific techniques or exercises that I can do with Tim to support him? Should I seek professional help, for example from a child psychologist or therapist? What other measures could help us support Tim in handling stress better?
I thank you in advance for your support and advice.
Sincerely,
Anna Schlosser
Dear Mrs. Schlosser,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a pediatrician. I am sorry to hear that Tim has been appearing so stressed lately and that you are very worried about him. Stress in children can have various causes, and it is important to respond early to help Tim cope with it.
First and foremost, it is important to talk to Tim about his feelings and emotions. Let him openly express his thoughts and fears, and listen attentively to him. Often, simply listening and showing understanding for his situation can be helpful.
There are also various techniques and exercises that can help you support Tim. For example, relaxation exercises like progressive muscle relaxation or breathing exercises can help reduce stress. Regular physical activity, games, and outdoor activities can also help Tim relax and better handle stressful situations.
If you feel that Tim needs professional help, it may be helpful to consult a child psychologist or therapist. These experts can help Tim understand his feelings and find ways to cope with them. It may also be beneficial for you as parents to seek advice and support from a professional.
In addition to these measures, it is important to ensure a healthy and balanced diet as well as adequate sleep for Tim. Make sure he has enough time for relaxation and leisure activities, and support him in finding a balance between school, leisure time, and rest.
I hope that these tips help you support Tim and help him better cope with stress. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions or need assistance.
Kind regards,
Hildegard Hirschfeld
