As a parent, you will usually spot any changes in your child’s usual behaviour. Life during this pandemic however means that it’s necessary to check in with our children more often and specifically watch and listen for any signs they are struggling. Don’t forget that your doctor or clinic is on hand to help.
Adolescents and older teenagers may try to hide their struggles because of fear, shame, or a sense of responsibility to avoid burdening others. Younger children may not know how to talk about these feelings but may show changes in their behavior or development. Make it easy for your child to talk about how they are feeling. Feeling depressed, anxious, or angry may be signs they could benefit from more support during this difficult time.
RECOGNISING SIGNS OF STRESS IN YOUR CHILD
Signs of stress and mental health challenges are not the same for every child or teen, but there are some common symptoms. Infants, toddlers and young children may show backward progress in skills and developmental milestones. They may also have increased problems with the behaviours detailed below.
Younger children:
Fussiness and irritability, startling and crying more easily, and more difficult to console
Falling asleep and waking up more during the night
Feeding issues such as frantic nippling, more reflux, constipation or loose stools, or new complaints of stomach pain
Separation anxiety, seeming more clingy, withdrawn, or hesitant to explore
Hitting, frustration, biting and more frequent or intense tantrums
Bedwetting after they’re potty trained
Conflict and aggression or themes like illness or death during play.
Older children and adolescents:
This story is from the February 2021 edition of Mother, Baby & Child.
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This story is from the February 2021 edition of Mother, Baby & Child.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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