Stress is a natural physiological reaction that accompanies nervous tension from the first days of a person’s life. Babies are as susceptible to negative emotions as adults. A stressful state can be associated with the first independent steps, entering the first grade, puberty and much more. Not all children are stressed in the same situations and react in the same way to emotional stress. It is impossible to completely protect the child from all difficulties, however, it is in the power of the parents to teach the baby to properly react to troubles and cope with nervous tension.

How stress manifests itself in children

The main manifestation of stress in a child is a sharp change in his behavior. Some babies may behave like babies: they start sucking their thumb, wetting the bed. Older children become withdrawn and silent, avoid communication with peers and adults. Stress can manifest itself in frequent mood swings, outbursts of childish aggression , and loss of control over one’s behavior. A sign of stress is a convulsive tic: twitching of individual muscles, frequent swallowing, winding strands of hair around a finger, etc. Against the background of stress, a child may develop increased fatigue, nausea and psychosomatic disorders. 

What are the causes of stress in children?

Stress in a child is a reaction to something new that the child cannot cope with due to lack of experience. The mechanism of childhood stress triggers the intrusion into the child’s life of something unfamiliar and unpleasant, which may haunt him in the form of childhood fears or memories. The causes of stress reactions largely depend on the age of the baby.  

In newborns and children under 2 years of age

In a newborn or small child, a stressful condition can provoke illness or separation from the mother (or other loved ones). The kid is sensitive to the experiences of adults and can “catch” their stress.

In children 2 to 5 years old

Stress in a preschooler can be caused by short-term or long-term separation from loved ones, adaptation of the child to kindergarten , visiting a hairdresser or a doctor, as well as other disturbances in the usual way of life. 

In primary school children

For a child under the age of 10, the causes of stress can be academic failure, difficult relationships with classmates and teachers. Another reason may be internal conflict when the toddler blames himself for the wrongdoing.

How to help your child cope with stress

Let your emotions out

The child does not yet know how to control his emotions. Frank conversations with adults, keeping a diary, or any hobby will help to solve the problem of accumulating negativity.

Solve the problem together

Do not hesitate to discuss with your child his problems, if necessary, seek help from psychologists or those people who are the authority for the baby.

Compensate for emotional stress

Moderate physical activity is a good prevention of emotional stress. The child can go to the sports section or the pool, ride a bike, etc. All these activities contribute to the production of “happiness hormones” (endorphins), which help to cope with stress.

Observe the regimen

Compliance with a daily routine helps to normalize the child’s mood and behavior. Nutrition should be balanced, exercise should be moderate, and sleep should be full. It is important not to allow situations when a child refuses to eat, sleep or rest, or skips school.

Instill self-confidence in your child

A child needs support and faith in the future even more than an adult. Tell your child that difficult periods in life are always replaced by bright and joyful ones.

Help your child relax

Socializing with friends, shopping, cartoons, computer games, or a massage can help your child cope with a stressful situation. Invite your child to choose one of these activities and teach him to pay attention not only to the negative, but also to the positive moments.

In some situations, the above measures may not be enough, since the child’s body cannot cope with the consequences of nervous tension, emotional distress and overwork on its own. In such cases, experts recommend taking stress medications for children. Increased requirements are imposed on such funds, in particular, they must have a high safety profile, not cause addiction and addiction.

Numerous positive recommendations and reviews were received by the drug ” Tenoten for children”. Experts note the following advantages of ” Tenoten for children”:

• a wide range of effects (the drug soothes, relieves external signs of stress, improves memory and concentration);
• no side effects of the drug have been identified.