How to Deal With Anxiety and Not Affect Your Child

SharePinEmailAre you struggling with anxiety? If so, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, anxiety is one of the most common mental health disorders in the United States. Left untreated, it can have a devastating impact on our lives and those around us. But there is hope.  We can take steps to manage our anxiety and keep it…

Are you struggling with anxiety? If so, you’re not alone. Unfortunately, anxiety is one of the most common mental health disorders in the United States. Left untreated, it can have a devastating impact on our lives and those around us. But there is hope. 

We can take steps to manage our anxiety and keep it from adversely affecting our children. In this post, we’ll explore some of those steps. 

Related: How to Face Anxious Thoughts – with the best Bible Verses on Anxiety

Manage Your Anxiety Without Affecting Your Kids

You can do things to help manage your anxiety and keep it from getting out of control. First, make sure you’re getting enough sleep. When you’re well-rested, you’re better able to cope with stress. Exercise is also a great way to reduce anxiety. It releases endorphins that can boost your mood, but it also helps to promote relaxation. 

Eat a balanced diet. Avoiding caffeine and eating plenty of healthy foods will help keep your energy levels up and your anxiety in check. 

Related: What is She Thinking? The Trauma Effects Single Parents Experience

Find ways to de-stress and relax. Different ways to de-stress could include:

  • Yoga or meditation.
  • Spending time outdoors.
  • Reading or listening to music.
  • Talking to friends and family. 

It might mean taking a break from social media. Maybe it means taking up a new hobby or saying no to plans that you know will be too overwhelming. 

Avoid the temptation to talk to your kids about what’s making you anxious. Instead, let your child be a child with child-like concerns. Save your problems and issues and feelings for a counselor or friend. 

Related: How to Stop Obsessive Thoughts in Their Tracks: Causes and Solutions

Whatever it is, make sure that you prioritize your wellbeing. It’s also important to remember that you’re not alone. Anxiety is incredibly common, and there are people all around you who understand what you’re going through. So reach out to your friends and family, and let them know how they can help you.

Seeking Professional Help

If you find that your anxiety interferes with your daily life or causes significant distress, please seek professional help. There is no shame in admitting that you need assistance and getting the support you need to live a healthy and happy life. 

Related: How Childhood Trauma Affects Our Relationships

A therapist can help you understand and manage your anxiety in a healthy way for both you and your children.

Professional help will benefit you and those around you, including your children. You will be more present and available for your kids when you can manage your anxiety. In addition, your kids can learn from your example that it is okay to seek help when needed. 

Medication

Also, be open to medication if your therapist or doctor suggests it. There is no shame in taking meds to manage your mental life. On the contrary, it could be the best decision you ever make for yourself and your family.

Related: How to Stop Obsessive Thoughts in Their Tracks: Causes and Solutions

These are just a few basic steps that we can take to help manage our anxiety and keep it from adversely affecting our children. Anxiety can be a debilitating condition, but it is manageable. By taking care of yourself, finding ways to de-stress and relax, and seeking professional help if necessary, you can keep your anxiety from adversely affecting your children. 

How to Deal With Anxiety and Not Affect Your Child