Helping Parents Or Caregivers Of Children With Anxiety

A first step in helping your child manage and overcome anxiety is recognizing it, but this can be difficult. Children struggling with anxiety can sometimes be quiet, shy, and cautious. They may be very compliant and eager to please adults.

On the other hand, an anxious child may "act out" with tantrums, crying, avoidance and disobedience. These behaviors may be misinterpreted as oppositional and "difficult" when they are actually anxiety related.

As a caregiver, you and your family will likely be asked to participate in your child's treatment. Our NPS counselor will often use this time to help educate parents about anxiety, suggest helpful techniques and allow time for the family to process together some of the child's anxious thoughts and feelings in Social Connection. Since we prefer to coach the parent(s) to help the child, some sessions are only with parents.  

Anxiety can make children want to isolate themselves from peers and family members. Help your child feel safe to connect with others, offering opportunities to be with family and enjoy each other's company by playing games, spending time outdoors together, or finding a common interest or hobby.

Volunteering in the community can be another wonderful way to help your child stay connected to others. Allow them to explore and identify something they feel passionate about and help them seek out related opportunities in the community to help.