Helping Children Overcome Anxiety: A Personal Guide

Introduction

Hi, I'm Lori Shifrin. If you're worried about your child's anxiety, you're not alone. As a parent myself, I know how important it is to ensure our children feel safe and supported. For over two decades, I battled severe anxiety disorders, and through my journey, I developed a unique approach that has since helped over 30 million people worldwide. My methods are based on real experiences and proven results. Let's explore how to recognise and address anxiety in children together.

Understanding Anxiety in Children

What is Anxiety in Children?

Anxiety in children manifests as intense fear or worry about various aspects of life. It can affect their emotional, physical, and social well-being. Recognising these signs early is crucial for effective intervention. I recall my own children expressing anxiety through various symptoms, which led me to explore ways to help them cope and thrive.

Recognising Symptoms

Physical Symptoms

• Stomach Aches and Headaches: Children often complain about stomach aches or headaches, especially before school or social events.
• Muscle Tension and Fatigue: Your child might mention feeling sore or unusually tired despite getting enough sleep.
• Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, nightmares, or bedwetting can be common in anxious children.
• Changes in Eating Habits: Anxiety can cause noticeable changes in eating habits, such as loss of appetite or overeating.

Emotional and Behavioural Symptoms

• Excessive Worry and Irritability: Children may constantly worry about various aspects of life, leading to irritability and outbursts over minor issues.
• Fearfulness and Avoidance: Developing irrational fears and avoiding specific activities or people.
• Negative Self-Talk: Frequent self-criticism and a strong fear of making mistakes.

Social Challenges

Reluctance to Participate and Isolation

Your child may be hesitant to join group activities or speak up in class. Preferring to spend time alone rather than with peers might become more frequent, making it hard for them to make and maintain friendships. I remember the heartbreak of seeing my child sitting alone at a birthday party, too anxious to join in.

Academic Concerns

Decline in Grades and School Avoidance

Anxiety often impacts academic performance. You might notice a noticeable drop in grades or frequent complaints about feeling unwell to avoid school. It’s not just about the grades; it’s about their overall well-being.

Difficulty Concentrating

Completing homework and staying focused on tasks can become challenging due to anxiety. Teachers may notice your child daydreaming or seeming distracted in class.

Addressing Anxiety in Children

Open Communication

Encourage your child to talk about their feelings and worries. Listen without judgement and provide reassurance. I've found that simply being there and listening can make a world of difference.

Creating a Supportive Environment

Help your child feel safe and supported. Establish routines and set realistic expectations to reduce stress. My method includes practical steps and activities that can help your child feel more secure.

Why You Can Trust My Approach

I understand the overwhelming grip of anxiety firsthand. I battled severe anxiety disorders for over two decades, and through my recovery, I developed a unique approach that has since helped millions of people worldwide.

Credentials and Experience:

• Pioneer in Anxiety Recovery: Since 1997, my methods have been tested and proven effective, helping countless individuals regain control of their lives.
• Author and Educator: I've authored over 200 works and have been featured by Hay House Publishing as the world’s leading anxiety recovery expert.
• Global Reach: My programmes have reached people in more than 60 countries, with personal coaching and residential retreats that provide immersive recovery experiences.
• Media Presence: I’ve been a keynote speaker, TV presenter, and guest on numerous radio shows and podcasts, spreading awareness and effective solutions for anxiety disorders.
• Recovery Ambassadors: Many of my high-profile clients, such as Jemma Kidd, Plum Sykes, and Jodie Kidd, have become Recovery Ambassadors, sharing their recovery journeys to inspire others.

Conclusion

Recognising and addressing anxiety in children is crucial for their well-being. With understanding, support, and the right strategies, your child can overcome anxiety and thrive. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Together, we can help your child lead a happier, more confident life.

If these experiences resonate with you, it’s important to recognise that your child might be suffering from anxiety. The Anxiety Project recovery methodology creates fast, simple and lifelong, drug-free, anxiety disorder recovery. It is the world's first and only accredited, evidence-based, psycho-educational recovery treatment.