Anxiety In America

In America, anxiety seems to be the norm. The economic downturn has caused Americans to worry about job losses, and the loss of their savings. People are trying to cope with insomnia, stomach upsets and irritability. This just seems to make matters worse.

We tend to forget how this affects our children. We get stressed out and look for ways to handle hard times. When adults have anxiety, it is usually because of loss of control in some area of our lives. We begin to feel angry.

Before when our children did little things to irritate us, like not cleaning their room, or turning the tv on too loud, we would give a gentle reprimand. But in stress filled times we may snap and yell at the child. This can cause anxieties in our children.

There are several symptoms that show up in a child that feels anxiety: headaches, stomach problems, poor grades, or acting out.

To preserve your family, talk to a counselor or pastor or friend. This can give you relief from the feeling of stress and helps to see things clearer. Be honest with your children. Let them know that things are hard for everybody right now. Give them things they can do to help the family. They can make their own lunch or mow the lawn. Or do what they are capable of doing to help the situation. If everyone shares in helping, it will alleviate some of the stress on everyone.

We will all get through this. The most important thing is to remember that we are not alone. God loves us and will take care of us.