Signs of Stress in Kids
A very informative website, fosteringresilience.com, has published an article regarding signs that kids may be in trouble and when to seek help for them. When kids reach their limitations of dealing with the stresses of life, they note that it is important to recognize that these human limitations are not a sign of poor parenting nor are they a sign of weakness on our children’s part.
Just as adults do, children experience stress physically as well. They have physical symptoms such as: stomach aches, headaches, fatigue, dizziness, and even chest pain when they are truly experiencing the stresses of life. Sometimes we as parents feel that they are trying to get out of school or their responsibilities. However, they may just simply be overdoing it and experiencing high levels of stress. A common sign of stress is also dropping grades. Anytime grades drop significantly, a red flag warning should occur to the parent. Other signs include a sudden change in friends, or style of dress. Further, if you suspect your child is using alcohol or drugs or smoking cigarettes, it is imperative that it be discussed and addressed.
Fosteringresilience.com also lists other critical signs of trouble and stress in kids including:
- Sleep problems
- Nightmares
- Returning to less mature behaviors (thumb sucking/tantrums)
- Renewed separation anxiety
- New bedwetting
- Irritability, outbursts, or tantrums
- Hopelessness
- Change in eating habits
- Anger
- Isolation/withdrawal
- Loss of friends
- Missing school because of frequent physical symptoms
If you just see one of these signs in your kid’s behavior there is most likely no need to be concerned. But, if several of these signs are sounding familiar, it may be time to check in with your child and ensure that things are ok and that your child is not overdoing anything or experiencing unnecessary stress.