Anxiety is one of the most common causes of mental health issues. Moreover, the number of children experiencing anxiety is steadily increasing. Sometimes, parents mistakenly believe that their child is too young to feel anxious and use ineffective methods to address the problem.

The question is... what can you do to help ease your child's anxiety?

Simply walking over to pat them on the back and saying, "You'll get through this" does not change what they are thinking or make them feel better. There are many phrases that can help your child feel less anxious and more confident in solving their problems.

These 15 phrases are what you should use with your child to help them feel more at ease.

1. "Mom and Dad understand that you're scared."

Don't be afraid to talk about feelings of fear. Dr. Daniel Siegel states that when you discuss any emotion, your brain begins to process it, allowing you to think of better solutions. Once you tell your child that they are feeling scared, they will start to understand and share their problems with you, enabling both of you to work together to find solutions.

2. "Mom and Dad know it's tough."

Anxiety is a significant issue, so let them know you understand by showing that you feel the same way. This will encourage them to approach you and open up. Observe them and reassure them that what they are feeling anxious about is not wrong.

3. "Do you want a hug?"

Hugging has numerous benefits. Using body language can stimulate happiness hormones and reduce cortisol (the stress hormone). Your child will feel relaxed and able to reflect on the situation.

4. "Take a deep breath."

Teaching your child to focus on their breathing during stressful moments is incredibly beneficial. Suggest they place their left hand on their stomach and their right hand over their heart, breathing slowly and feeling their breath through their nose and chest. This method can help them forget their stress and change their posture while feeling anxious, and it can be used in the classroom, before exams, or when they start to feel anxious.

5. "How about we go somewhere you like?"

Once your child feels less anxious, ask them where they would like to go to feel better, calmer, more confident, and happy. It could be the beach, a vacation home, or their bedroom. Encourage them to describe the details of what they like, such as what it looks like, the sounds, and the smells. If they feel anxious again in the future, take them to the place they described that makes them happy.

6. "Shall we sing a song?"

Research shows that singing can reduce stress and increase happiness. You might start singing your child's favorite song for them to sing along or dance to. Just a moment of this can release endorphins, allowing your child to forget their stress for a while. Plus, you'll get to share a sweet moment with your child.

7. "Is there anything else you want to say?"

Let your child express their stress. If you ask questions, use open-ended ones to give them the space to share. This shows them how much you care about their concerns and allows you to participate in finding solutions together.

8. "What does your heart say, and what does your mind say?"

This question helps stimulate your child's feelings and thoughts about the situation. Their heart may say they are afraid of failing a test, but their mind might be telling them they are studying hard. Teach them that both can be true and that it's okay. This method helps them distinguish between fear and reality and serves as practice for self-talk.

9. "What is the worst that could happen?"

Asking them, "What is the worst that could happen?" helps your child think from a broader perspective and makes their big problem feel smaller. Ask them how bad this situation really is, what they can do about it, and what they can learn from it. Your child will realize they can overcome challenges and do their best.

10. "What would (their favorite character) do in this situation?"

Everyone usually has a favorite idol. Ask your child how their idol would handle this situation, then guide them on how they can emulate their idol.

11. "Just do your best."

Your children probably want to hear that perfection doesn't exist in this world. Just tell them to do their best and be the best version of themselves.

12. "How do you want to feel?"

It's good to give your child the choice of how they truly want to feel. For example, when my child was afraid of getting a shot, he kept repeating that he was scared. I asked him how he wanted to feel instead, and he replied, "Brave." I then told him that he is brave and encouraged him to say it out loud, which worked.

13. "This too shall pass. Remember... (something that has passed)?"

It's natural for children to get confused with their emotions and think they will last forever. Therefore, you need to help them understand that it will pass, just like previous situations that have occurred.

14. "How can Mom and Dad help you?"

Children often already know what they need from you. So, you should ask them. When given the opportunity to think, they will tell you. They might say, "Hold my hand" or "Sit next to me until I calm down," and the solution will follow.

15. "Mom and Dad love you."

Expressing your feelings for your child is like wrapping them in warmth and protection, making them feel safe. This will help alleviate their anxiety and reduce their fear of future worries because your love will always protect them.

SOURCE: www.tonkit360.com