Anxiety on the Rise in Children

Anxiety on the Rise in Children

Children and teens have endured a lot of change and upheaval since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their worlds were literally turned upside down. Levels of anxiety and stress have skyrocketed for this age group and we are seeing it every week in our mental health practices. We all have to wonder what the long-term consequences are for this new generation, but for now we are learning to deal with the short-term consequences.

While there are many different skills and techniques that can be taught to children and teens (and adults, too) about how to manage anxiety and stress, it would behoove us to begin building better resilience within this generation of children. This can begin with a conversation in the therapist’s office, but it must also be a focus within the home environment. A trusted therapist can help build the foundation for resilience in children and parents can then be given the skills and tools to bring stability and safety back to the environment within which they live each day.

A resilient child or teen needs to have at least one continuous, resilient relationship with a parent, caregiver, or close relative and this relationship should be nurtured. There are steps that can be utilized to assist in this nurturing process, these all-important bonds. Positive psychology research has continued to show us the mental health benefits of having fulfilling interpersonal relationships, bringing more happiness and joy as a result of these quality connections.

If your child or teen is struggling with anxiety and/or stress, please feel free to reach out to us at Wesley Counseling (813-439-7676). We will be more than happy to spend a few moments on the phone with you to help you determine what might be best in terms of therapy.