Support for Youths
The Statistics
It’s no secret that many young people experience trauma and anxiety at some point during their lives. In fact, research from King’s College London shows that about 1 in 13 young people in the UK have experienced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) before turning 18. The same study found that nearly 31% of young people had gone through a traumatic event during childhood. Those exposed to trauma are twice as likely to develop mental health disorders compared to their peers.
Additionally, Psychology Today reports that anxiety affects 25% of young people aged 13 to 18. With the average age of onset around 11, anxiety is often one of the earliest mental health issues to appear. Girls are more likely to be diagnosed than boys, but all children are vulnerable.
Recognising the signs of trauma and anxiety early can make a big difference in a child’s life. The World Health Organization highlights that mental health conditions make up 16% of the global burden of disease in people aged 10-19 years. The good news is there are ways to help your child cope.
Understanding & Supporting Youths
Trauma is any deeply distressing or disturbing experience that overwhelms a child’s ability to cope. This can include events like the death of a loved one, abuse, witnessing violence, or even parental separation. Anxiety, often a byproduct of trauma, manifests as persistent worry or fear that interferes with everyday life.
While it’s normal for youths to feel anxious during big life changes—such as sitting an exam, moving schools, or dealing with social pressures—chronic anxiety is different. If your child seems stuck in a constant state of worry that affects their daily activities, it’s important to take action.
If your child is battling anxiety, start by having an open and relaxed conversation. Sometimes, just talking can be a huge relief. Here are some key steps you can take:
Start the Conversation Gently: Choose a quiet, relaxed setting and ask them how they’re feeling. Encourage them to open up, and let them know that it’s okay to feel anxious. Listening without judgment is essential. Even if their fears seem irrational to you, they are very real to your child.
Share Your Own Experiences: Reassure your child that they are not alone. Share your own experiences of anxiety or fear from when you were younger and how you handled those situations. Knowing that others have felt the same way can be comforting.
Practical Tips
Helping your child develop effective coping strategies is crucial. Here are some techniques that may help:
Grounding Techniques: Encourage your child to try grounding techniques that help bring them back to the present moment. One popular method is the “5-4-3-2-1” technique: ask them to name five things they see, four things they can touch, three things they hear, two things they smell, and one thing they taste. This helps shift their focus away from anxious thoughts. You might also like to discover other Grounding Techniques
Get Moving: Physical activity is one of the best ways to combat anxiety. Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood boosters, and can help burn off excess energy. Whether it’s a walk, kicking a ball around the garden, or dancing to music, encourage your child to stay active. You can even join them for a fun bonding experience.
Healthy Eating: What we eat has a significant impact on how we feel. Too much sugar, caffeine, or processed food can trigger anxiety or low mood. Try cooking healthy meals together, using it as a way to encourage better eating habits and spend quality time together.
Sleep Routine: Lack of sleep often worsens anxiety. Establish a consistent bedtime routine that promotes relaxation, such as winding down with a book or calming music. Tools like My Bedtime Countdown can help establish good habits and make it easier for your child to fall asleep.
Model Healthy Behaviour: Children often mimic the behaviours they see in their parents. If your child sees you tackling your worries calmly and putting coping strategies in place, they’re more likely to follow suit. Show them that while anxiety can be difficult, it’s possible to manage it in a healthy way.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your child’s anxiety seems persistent or their symptoms are getting worse, it may be time to seek professional help. Make an appointment to chat with your GP who could recommend therapists and counsellors that specialise in child and adolescent mental health can offer tailored strategies. Don’t hesitate to reach out for expert advice if you feel it’s needed.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Beyond these practical tips, creating a calm and supportive home environment is key. Reassure your child that they are loved and supported no matter what they’re going through. Encourage open communication and let them know they can talk to you about anything that’s on their mind. Building this trust can help ease their anxiety over time.
Final Thoughts
Helping your child navigate the challenges of trauma and anxiety is no easy task, but every step you take makes a difference. By encouraging open conversations, modelling healthy behaviour, and trying out practical coping techniques, you can help your child manage their anxiety and regain a sense of control. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey—and neither is your child.
A Guide For Parents
Supporting Children’s Mental Well-Being & Happiness.
As parents, we all want our children to be happy. So when your child isn’t feeling their best or struggling with different challenges in life, it can be such a worry. But luckily, you can help them get back on the right track. In this 15-page guide, we have put together several topics which can assist towards helping your child feel less anxious, more confident and happy.
