April 16 – National Stress Awareness Day

It is no accident today is National Stress Awareness Day. April 16th was designated as Stress Awareness Day because it is the day after taxes are due! If you suffer from stress you do not need me to give you a tutorial of how to expand your awareness of it. However, it might be helpful to expand your knowledge of the symptoms of stress in your children and what you can do to help.

Adults and children alike experience “good stress” and “bad stress.” A fair amount of stress is a normal and natural part of life. “Good stress” occurs when it inspires us to do our best. “Bad stress” occurs when we believe we are unable to cope. Below is a list of signs your child may be suffering from “bad stress.”

Symptoms of Stress in Children by Ellis P. Copeland and the NASP
Irritability
Sleep difficulty or nightmares
Inability to concentrate
Drop in grades or other functioning
Toilet or eating concerns
Headaches or stomachaches
Unexplained fears or increased anxiety


You might be thinking, Kelci, I thought your blog was about celebrations. What does this have to do with celebrating? Although this is a rather heavy topic, I think it is important to celebrate your ability to help your child cope with stress. Here is a list of things you can do to help your child overcome “bad stress.”

How Parents Can Help by Ellis P. Copeland and the NASP
Build trust with your child
Teach and model good emotional responses
Encourage them to tell you if they feel overwhelmed
Encourage physical activity, good nutrition, and rest.
Teach your child to problem solve.
Help your child feel a part of decision-making when appropriate.
Remind your child of his or her ability to get through tough times, particularly with the love and
support of family and friends.
Help your child select appropriate extracurricular activities and limit over-scheduling.
Monitor your own stress level. Take care of yourself.
Seek the assistance of a physician, school psychologist, school counselor.

If you find yourself overwhelmed or consumed by stress try these stress relievers

Stress Relievers
Eliminate destructive self-talk ("I'm stupid, "I'm fat," etc.)
Listen to music
Play games
Unplug your phone
Take a long bath
Laugh
Exercise
Meditate
Write
Sleep

Today let’s celebrate taking control of our stress. Here is a list of family activities to erase stress. Remind your family members not to be too competitive when playing. The idea behind these activities is to eliminate stress, not create it.

Family Stress Erasers
Play basketball
Go swimming
Play baseball
Ride bicycles
Play tennis
Go to the playground
Fly kites
Play board games
Cook together
Play charades