In the uncertainty of these times, as we are learning to deal with life amid COVID – 19 it is easy to forget that our children/teenagers may be experiencing extra stress or anxiety.
We are busy thinking through our options in terms of working from home, whether we have enough food without stockpiling and what we will do in this rapidly changing environment. In the midst of what we are dealing with, we can forget to check in with our children and teenagers about what they are thinking and feeling.
If our children are experiencing anxiety this can be an opportunity to remind ourselves and work with our children on helpful ways of managing anxiety. For example, this may be stuff you already know but it’s good to be reminded again:
Be present in the present.
How can I be present in the present?
Take a deep breath. Often when we are anxious, we take shallow breaths. When we are scared or anxious, we start to breath quickly and from our upper chest. As you read this, take a slow deep breath. Feel your stomach expand as you breath in.