How Do I Help My Child Cope with Anxiety?

Dr. Anne Marie Albano is a renowned psychologist known for her research on treating anxiety and mood disorders in youth. She has published award-winning self-help books and treatment manuals.

Anxiety is a fundamental human emotion triggered by inborn alarms in our brain. Dr. Albano explains the evolutionary aspect of anxiety and how it can manifest in everyday situations.

Dr. Albano discusses how anxiety in children often goes unrecognized for years and the role of parents and teachers in identifying and addressing it.

Anxiety can be both genetic and influenced by experiences. Dr. Albano emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins of anxiety to effectively manage it.

Parents play a crucial role in addressing child anxiety by providing support while encouraging independence and self-soothing techniques. Dr. Albano explains the impact of parental reactions on anxiety levels.

Dr. Albano provides practical tips for parents to help children cope with anxiety, including self-soothing techniques, setting expectations, and using positive reinforcement.

Parents can identify signs of anxiety in children through behaviors such as avoidance, excuses, and changes in social interactions. Dr. Albano emphasizes the importance of listening to teachers' observations.

Self-soothing techniques are essential for children to manage anxiety. Dr. Albano explains the significance of teaching children how to calm themselves in stressful situations.

Promoting independence in children can help build resilience and reduce anxiety. Dr. Albano discusses setting expectations and allowing children to take on responsibilities.

Using rewards and setting limits can help manage anxiety in children by encouraging positive behaviors and discouraging avoidance. Dr. Albano explains the importance of balancing privileges with responsibilities.