Families Can Help Their Kids Cope With Fear and Anxiety
 

Whether tragic events touch your family personally or are brought into your home via newspapers and television, you can help children cope with the anxiety that violence, death and disasters can cause.

Listening and talking to children about their concerns can reassure them that they will be safe. Start by encouraging them to discuss how they have been affected by what is happening around them. Even young children may have specific questions about tragedies. Children react to stress at their own developmental level.

Some additional suggestions for parents and those who care for children include:

Encouraging children to ask questions

Listen to what they say. Provide comfort and assurance that address their specific fears. It's okay to admit you can't answer all of their questions.

Talking on their level

Communicate with your children in a way they can understand. Don't get too technical or complicated.

Being honest

Tell them exactly what has happened. For example, don't say that someone who has died has "gone to sleep;" children may become afraid of going to bed.

Finding out what else frightens them

Encourage your children to talk about other fears they may have. They may worry that someone will harm them at school or that someone will try to hurt you.

Focusing on the positive

Reinforce the fact that most people are kind and caring. Remind your child of the heroic actions taken by ordinary people to help victims of tragedy.

Paying attention

Your children's play and drawings may give you a glimpse into their questions or concerns. Ask them to tell you what is going on in the game or the picture. It is an opportunity to clarify any misconceptions, answer questions and give reassurance.

Developing a plan

Establish a family emergency plan for the future, such as a meeting place where everyone should gather if something unexpected happens in your family or neighborhood. It can help you and your child feel safer.
If you are concerned about your child's reaction to stress or trauma, call your physician or contact a local mental health professional who specializes in helping children and adolescents and/or families.