How to Help Children With Anxiety & Depression Disorder
- 1). Start by talking with the child that is having anxiety or depression. Take notes in a journal about how they are feeling and the issues that are bothering them. Encourage them to also keep a journal to help write down their problems and anxieties. Spend time each day writing in the journal with the child and encourage the child to do the same.
- 2). Work through the depression and anxiety together. When the child is anxious help them to understand the root of their anxiety and that having stress is normal. This is the same for depression.
- 3). Help the child change routines and behaviors that are causing them anxiety and or depression. Simply stopping an after school activity or daily activity can sometimes help ease anxiety and depression.
- 4). Spend quality time with the child suffering from anxiety or depression. Make sure the child gets regular exercise and spends time outside. By doing outdoor activities together, the child will have the opportunity to get some fresh air, a new outlook at their problems and have a chance to talk one on one with someone.
- 5). Make sure the child is getting enough sleep at night and healthy meals. Lack of sleep and poor nutrition can cause children to have difficulty dealing with normal situations, leading to greater stress and anxiety. Help create a quiet and calm atmosphere in the child's room by using curtains and keeping noise level to a minimum.
- 6). Talk with a doctor about the child's anxiety and or depression and listen to suggestions. If a doctor feels professional help is a good option, follow directions in seeking out a proper health care professional for the child to help them work through their anxiety or depression.
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