A common question that we will have in this line of thinking is that are their children experiencing stress – is it from school, peer pressure, or even at home? If we are to observe carefully, one will be in a position to note shouldering behaviors at a tender age so that he or she can be assisted appropriately. Signs that your child might be under pressure: continued Importance here denotes how some of the signs highlighted in this article can help you.
Understanding Pressure:
Pressure however, is an unpredictable factor that has to be clearly defined in relation to a child’s life. It can be either academic— things like grades, coursework, or deadlines—or social— for example, friendships, relationships, or group work, and so on—, extracurricular activities, or family issues. However those pressures that result in overpreparing or even stressing the kids can become a problem as they may lead to stress, anxiety and even depression in children.
Signs of Pressure:
- Any changes in your child’s behavior, for instance, if the child is moody, easily annoyed, or a rather shy child who suddenly becomes very quiet and loses interest in activities he or she used to enjoy. These changes could also portray that pressure is being exerted on them to what extent they cannot handle it.
- Any changes in your child’s behavior, for instance, if the child is moody, easily annoyed, or a rather shy child who suddenly becomes very quiet and loses interest in activities he or she used to enjoy. These changes could also portray that pressure is being exerted on them to what extent they cannot handle.
- Avoiding other individuals, whether it be friends or family, it could be that they are feeling pressured. Due to this, they may exclude themselves from social activities, trying to run away from the sources of pressure they are enduring
- It is critical to pay attention to the fact that perfectionism might be an indication of pressure. If your child uses certain words such as ‘be perfect,’ ‘have to,’ and ‘can’t,’ these might make your child feel pressured to meet some standards.
How to support your child?
You can support your child in the following ways:
1. Open communication:
Creating a safe environment for your child to raise their concerns and creating a non-judgemental environment for your child to enable them to express themselves. Try to open them up and tell them that it is alright to discuss their problems.
2. Validate their feelings:
Paint it in words to the child, attempting to motivate him/her with the words that all can be stressed from time to time. This implies that you should not make them feel like fools, but instead assure them that you comprehend them.
3. Teach coping strategies:
Assist your kid have positive ways of dealing with stress and pressure that comes with school. This could involve such things as taking a deep breath, use of a mantra or a focus upon something they find enjoyable.
4. Set realistic expectations:
Consider what you expect from your child and make sure it is sensible and within their reach. Instead of stressing on results alone, be supportive towards the child’s improvement.
5. Seek professional help if needed:
If your kid’s mental health is worrying you or they keep showing such signs, consult a therapist. In addition to that, therapy can also equip them with more coping mechanisms and techniques.
How to help a child immediately in a pressured situation?
If a child is in a pressured situation and needs immediate help, you can:
- Encourage slow, deep breaths – show them how to breathe slowly, deeply and quickly if they’re ready for that. Counting in, 1…2…3 and releasing with a long breath out can help.
- Distract – suggest they imagine a calm, safe place or happy memory. Take their mind off the situation for a little while. If you know what their safe place is, encourage them to imagine it in detail. If you’re not sure, suggest a happy memory, like a birthday party or time with a pet.
- Suggest a magical place, like a beach on a tropical island or snowy mountains. Encourage them to use all their senses to build the picture in their minds – what can they see, hear, smell, feel, taste? If they’re not ready to do this, it’s not the time to force it, it may cause more anxiety.
- Have them tighten each muscle in their body in turn and then relax their face and then their tongue, move up to their nose and eyebrows, then into their arms and legs, and finally their toes.
- Offer soothing sensory experiences like kinetic sand to play in, a stress ball to squeeze, or calming music to listen to.
- Work on mindfulness practices like simply paying attention to their breathing or what they can hear with their senses in this very moment.
- Actively moving the body can help release excess energy and tension. Try jumping jacks, twirling, stretching, or taking a short walk together.
- During stressful times touching and being touched can be very comforting. Make sure there is a quiet, comfortable place for them to go when needed to – a hideaway from the stressor.
- Ask them to participate in a favorite pastime, game or activity to help forget about the stressor.
- Tell them that their feelings are normal and that you are there to help. Reassure them that you will face the stressor together if needed.
The first stage to helping your child get the support they require is by knowing when he/she feels pressured. Through being observant of their behavior, keeping communication open and giving validation and guidance you will be able to assist your child in his/her journey through tough times and help him/her to build mental strength for future challenges. As you do this, always bear in mind that each child is unique, what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, supportive, and considerate while you are assisting your child in tackling the pressures of growing up. At DPS Warangal, we emphasize the importance of understanding and supporting each child’s individual journey, fostering an environment where they can thrive emotionally and academically.