If you have asked yourself the question; "How do I help my anxious child?", you are not alone. Anxiety is the most common mental health challenge that children face - but that doesn't make it any easier. Watching your child struggle with anxiety is very difficult. For some children no matter how much reassurance you give them that everything will be okay their mind still races.
That's why we talked to parents across the state to see what situations cause their children anxiety, and asked them what worked for them. From constant texts to avoidance, to night anxiety and more. These parents tried everything, and these are their stories. Check them out and see which solutions may help you help your child thrive!
"Night after night, amidst our cozy family routine, I noticed my daughter drifting away, lost in her thoughts. Her eyes would fill with tears, and the questions would start pouring out. My attempts to soothe her fell short, leaving us both frustrated.
Determined to break the cycle, I changed our nightly ritual. Before settling in for our show, I'd ask her what was on her mind. Together, we tackled her anxieties head-on, creating a safe space for her to share.
Listening without judgment, I assured her that her worries were valid and that I'd always be there to help. Though her anxiety didn't vanish overnight, our consistent communication and support brought us closer.
Now, my daughter faces her fears with courage, knowing she can rely on me. Our bond is stronger, and her anxiety no longer controls her. It's a journey we're taking together, one night at a time."
"My daughter was visiting the nurse's office a lot at school, and it worried me. I felt like it was too much, and my daughter told me the nurse doesn't even call every single time she's there.
I did not want it to get in the way of her learning so I tried to figure out why she was going to the nurse so often. Was there a pattern? I called the nurse and asked her to give me a log of all the times my daughter had been there.
It turned out she was avoiding math class, which she has always found hard. Every time she went to the nurse, it was right before math.
I realized her struggles with math were causing her a lot of anxiety. So, I talked to her math teacher and got her a tutor. Now, her math skills are getting better, and she's less anxious about the class. She hardly ever goes to the nurse's office anymore."