Anxiety in children is more common than you might think. New research from the Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) National Child Health Poll found that 50 per cent of children experience problems with anxiety – and many parents find it hard to recognise the signs of mental health problems in their children.
1-Dr Anthea Rhodes, Paediatrician and Poll Director, said this study highlights anxiety is a common experience for many children, but it can be difficult for parents to recognise, and to know when they need professional help.
2- ‘Our research shows parents may not easily recognise the signs of a mental health problem, and only one in three are confident they could distinguish between ‘normal’ worries in their child, and anxiety that might need professional help.’
1-The brave program-An interactive online program aimed at 8–12 year olds to help them overcome worries and learn coping strategies.
2-Fear-less triple P online course-A toolkit to help your child manage anxiety and become more emotionally resilient.
3-Cool kids program-An interactive online program aimed at 7–12 year olds to help them overcome anxiety and build confidence.
1-Encourage your child to talk about their feelings and let you know when they get overwhelmed. It might help to explain these feelings are common – we all feel worried or scared sometimes.
2-If there is a particular situation your child finds challenging, support them to gradually do the thing that makes them anxious. For example, if going to a crowded shopping centre makes them anxious, start with short trips to the local shops, building up to visiting a shopping centre in a quiet period.
