How can I help my child cope better with stress?
February 21, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Benjamin Meier
Dear pediatrician,
My name is Quentin Hahn and I am reaching out to you because I am very concerned about my child. My son, Lukas, is 8 years old and has been seeming more and more stressed lately. He reacts very sensitively to changes in his environment, whether it be at school, at home, or with his friends. Often, he appears nervous, unfocused, and irritable.
I have already tried talking to him about his feelings and giving him tips on how to better cope with stress. For example, I have advised him to relax regularly, spend more time outdoors, and verbalize his worries and fears. Unfortunately, these measures do not seem to be sufficient and I am at a loss for how else I can help him.
I am very worried about Lukas' mental health and I want to ensure that he learns to cope better with stressful situations. That is why I am asking for your support and expertise. Can you please give me advice on how I can help my child better manage stress? Are there specific exercises or therapies that could help him with this? I am grateful for any suggestions that could help Lukas become happier and more balanced again.
Thank you in advance for your help.
Sincerely,
Quentin Hahn
Dear Mr. Hahn,
Thank you for your trust and openness in sharing your concerns about your son Lukas with me. It is understandable that you are worried when you notice that Lukas seems stressed, nervous, and irritable. It is important to react early to such signs in order to support Lukas in better managing stressful situations and strengthening his mental health.
It is commendable that you have already tried talking to Lukas about his feelings and giving him advice on how to deal with stress. However, it is not uncommon for these measures alone to not be enough to help Lukas. In such cases, it may be helpful to seek professional support.
One way to help Lukas better cope with stress is through cognitive behavioral therapy. This form of therapy aims to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. A therapist can help Lukas recognize his stressful thoughts and feelings and develop alternative coping strategies.
In addition, relaxation techniques such as Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Autogenic Training, or Mindfulness Exercises could help Lukas relax and reduce stress. These techniques can help him better control his emotions and react more calmly.
It is also important for Lukas to have enough time for relaxation and leisure activities. Regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and a healthy diet can also contribute to strengthening his mental health.
Please do not hesitate to schedule an appointment with a child psychologist or child psychiatrist to provide Lukas with professional support. An expert can better assess Lukas's individual needs and challenges and help you develop a customized stress management plan.
I hope that these suggestions will help you and support Lukas on the path to more serenity and balance. If you have any further questions or need additional support, I am always available to help.
Sincerely,
Benjamin Meier, Pediatrician
