Knowing and Detecting Child Stress

 Psychologyx- Knowing and Detecting Child Stress
Child stress, what is normal and what is not? At some level, stress is a normal and healthy for children. In fact, officially called "eustress", is a healthy stress or stress that gives a positive feeling. Children who experience this stress, often the result of trying new things, maintain a relationship and daily routine.

Eustress encourages children forward and give them a sense of satisfaction. So do not worry about eustress. While distress need to be considered. This occurs when a child is not able to adapt or become overwhelmed by life circumstances or responsibility.

Distress typically have negative implications for children and need to be addressed early. Even stress can affect the child's emotional, behavioral and physical.

Quoted from GalTime, some behavioral characteristic that can detect the child's stress:

    Increased aggression
    Isolating from family and friends
    Often crying for a long time
    Sudden bedwetting
    Changes in eating and sleeping habits
    Frequent tantrums
    Nervousness or restlessness
    Stomach aches, headaches or other physical complaints
    Problems at school
    Anxious

Remember, all children may experience some of these behaviors at different points in their development. Let children know that stress is experienced by everyone and that feelings of anxiety, anger and loneliness are normal.

If this behavior still remain and cause significant anxiety, for example due to problems at school, it is worth contacting the school, a child psychologist or professional counselor.

Some clues to minimize stress in their lives children

    Do not underestimate the gift of sleep and nutrition. Not less than 8 hours of sleep each night. Reduce sugar and caffeine.
    Talk, talk, and talk. Set a regular time to talk with children about their friends, school and family. Even if you do not agree with their thoughts and feelings, it is enough to be a listener. The main core of the chat is issued feelings that may not be revealed. If not, then this is the main source of stress.
    Allow the child to physical activity. Entered in a team sport or cycling and walking are a must for successful management of stress.
    Prepare children for stressful situations. For example, prepare children to enter school waiting for the day after a long vacation by getting them to buy new books, etc..
    Do not go overboard in giving children a variety of activities. Children also need time to relax, enjoy play time. This can avoid the stress of children.
    Remember that we can not completely protect children from stress. Helping children when they have trouble stress is a remarkable gift to reduce their burden.