What is stress? One child development expert defined stress as long-lasting or frequent feelings that cause difficulties in getting along with others, physical illness or drug or alcohol abuse. Many children and teens face more than one type of stressor. Examples of situations that cause high stress are negative thoughts, changes in their bodies, school and classmates’ demands or too high expectations. Other factors might be family financial problems, parentsí separation or divorce, family illness, poverty, abuse or abandonment.

Too much stress can cause an overload.† Loved ones who want to support stressed children or teens often may not know the best way to help. Here are suggestions offered by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry:

• Listen carefully to what your child or teen is saying with words or body language

• Watch for feelings of overload

• Learn and model stress management skills

• Emphasize to your child his strong points in relationships, learning and activities

• Express respect, love and hope to your child

• Encourage involvement in sports and other healthy social activities

• Make sure your child exercises and eats regularly

• Avoid having excess caffeine products in the house

• Learn and model relaxation exercises

• Learn and model coping skills

• Tell her that she does not have to be perfect

• Encourage your child to build a network of mentally healthy friends

• Consult a qualified mental health professional if the stress overload continues

References: Belinda, C. (2010). Stress: Seeing with optimism. Great Ideas! Supporting Quality Childcare for Military Families. Penn State Better Kid Care Program, Penn State University. Retrieved 8/16/11 from www.betterkidcare.psu.edu .

Helping teenagers with stress (2005). Facts for families, No. 66. Washington, D.C.: American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Retrieved 8-16-11 from http://www.aacap.org

Source: Carole Gnatuk, Senior Extension Specialist for Child Development, University of Kentucky College of Agriculture