Coping with Anxiety: A Guide for Kids and Teens

Key Takeaways

• Anxiety is a feeling everyone experiences sometimes — it's normal

• It becomes a concern when it's constant or stops enjoyment of daily life

• Simple coping tools can help kids and teens manage worry

• Parents can help most by listening calmly, without judgement

Understanding Anxiety

Anxiety is a feeling everyone has sometimes — like having a little worried voice inside you. It's normal, and there are gentle ways to manage it.

Simple Ways to Cope

• Naming the worry out loud, even just to yourself

• Slow breathing when things feel too much

• Talking to a trusted adult

• Keeping a simple, steady daily routine

Is it normal for kids to feel anxious sometimes?

Yes — everyone feels anxious sometimes. It becomes a concern when it's constant or stops a child doing things they enjoy.

How can parents help?

Listening without judgement and staying calm yourself both help a child feel safer talking about their worries.

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Ian Smith, BSc Hons, BACP Accredited — Wellbeing Practice, Poundbury, Wimborne & Online