Signs of Stress in Children
When a child doesn’t feel well, you want to do everything possible to help them feel better – it’s only natural. What happens when the child is stressed? You may think stress is an adult affliction, but it also impacts children of all ages through pressure at school, in sports and extra-curricular activities, and at home.
Some stress can be a good thing, helping to motivate a child to study for a test or practice for the big game. However, according to the American Psychological Association (APA), too much stress “can create unnecessary hardship and challenge.”
Do you recognize these symptoms of stress in children from the APA?
- Negative changes in behavior – acting irritable or moody; complaining about school; crying; not eating enough or eating too much; and not participating in favorite activities can all be signs of stress. According to KidsHealth.org, bedwetting, changes in sleep patterns, becoming withdrawn, lying and bullying can also be signs of stress.
- Feeling sick – frequent stomachaches and headaches are common symptoms of stress, and may result in frequent visits to the nurse’s office.
- Unusual interactions with others – children may act one way at home and another way at school, which can sometimes be a symptom of stress.
- Expressing stress in a different way – “Because children are often not familiar with the word stress and its meaning, they may express feelings of distress through other words such as ‘worried,’ ‘confused,’ ‘annoyed’ and ‘angry,’” according to the APA.
If you notice a child is exhibiting these symptoms of stress, be sure to make note of the situation and talk with the parents or a guidance counselor. Be sure to address bullying and negative behavior, and promote a positive environment. Read this article for more information on addressing stress.
Posted by Allie Lawrence
on April 8, 2015