Anxiety

Everyone feels worried, nervous or fearful at times. Anxiety can become a problem when it gets in the way of a child’s day-to-day life – like going to school or enjoying activities with friends.

There are ways to overcome and manage anxiety so it doesn’t get in the way of life. Here are some tips parents and caregivers can follow to help children cope with anxiety:

1. Notice your child’s feelings. Support them to identify their feelings. Let them know that you’re there to listen without judgement, when they want to talk
2. Model being calm. Try and focus on your own calm when your child is anxious
3. Try fidgeting. Fidgeting with items such as rings, elastics, pen caps, slinkies, beadwork, playdough, or fidget spinners, under adult supervision and when safe to do so, can help to reduce anxiety by occupying the body so the mind can rest
4. Move your body. Physical activity can help to shift focus away from worries and release stress. Encourage children to try new activities that involve movement
5. Practice mindfulness. Activities such as body scans and breathing meditations can help focus on the present and calm the mind. Check out the free Breathr app to learn more.

Getting help

It is important to seek help when anxiety is getting in the way of day-to-day activities for your child, like school and spending time with friends. Talk to your doctor or get help from a mental health professional.

If you’re unsure where to start, contact the BC Children’s Hospital Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre from anywhere in BC to learn about services and support options available in your community.  

Resources for anxiety

To learn more about anxiety and strategies to support your child, check out:

• For parents and caregivers: Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre, Anxiety
• For youth: Foundry - Coping with Anxiety
• Thunderbird Partnership Foundation: A Life Promotion Toolkit by Indigenous Youth (PDF)
• Walking alongside youth with anxiety