Recognizing Anxiety in Kids Can Mean Better Health
By Tom Herrin
It has not been that many years ago that expectations among children was vastly different from today. Whether it was good or not, most people seemed to accept some sort of pecking order among them. Much of it was almost considered a right of passage for the older ones. I remember when I went from elementary school to junior high. Some kind of initiation was expected. Getting a mohawk was the going thing then. The older kids antagonized the younger ones by giving the free haircut. Our society has grown up quite a bit in the meantime. People have learned to recognize some of the things that happen to kids for the serious implications they cause. How can we be better stewards of our children?
Be Aware of Their Fears
All people have fears of some kind. It is a normal part of life. As children grow older, they will normally begin to overcome some of those fears. If they seem to continue some particular fears, there may be reason to be concerned. A child’s fears should not be ignored if it appears to be persistent. Parents must also make special note to avoid adding to those fears. If a parent has a fear of water, it is better to invest time and effort to help their child become a competent swimmer.
Be Aware of Changes in Their Behaviors
Anytime a parent notices something unusual about a child’s behavior, they should make a special note. Children are growing and developing all of the time. Some changes may be due to that growing process that most people are all too familiar with. Having concerns about any behaviors in a child should never be blown off as a part of everyday life, even though it may be just that. Keeping a diary or log of behavior patterns can help paint a clearer picture. If concerns develop, sharing those notes with a professional can be just the help it takes.
Be Prepared to Seek Help
School counselors are always a free resource when dealing with children, but you should never place total confidence in them. There are other such resources that may have no cost. Churches, social service agencies, and others dealing with behavior and health may be able to steer someone in the right direction. Remember that our kids face problems that may be as big as those of any adults, maybe bigger. The main key is to be involved in their lives and show them love. For good overall health, wellness includes mind and body.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Huntersville, N.C.