You are not alone if your child frequently wake up anxious. Many people wake up with an abundance of nervous feelings, often before their feet touch the floor. Morning anxiety can be caused by a variety of circumstances, including stress, low blood sugar, prescription side effects, insufficient sleep, and hormonal changes.
How To Respond To Morning Anxiety
It matters most to respond to morning anxiety with compassion and comfort. Consider the two circumstances below:
Scenario 1
Chloe wakes up anxious and turns to her mother, Susan, for consolation. In response, Susan tells Chloe that her emotions are not normal and increases her worry by mentioning additional frightening scenarios. Susan then instructs Chloe to get in the shower and fetch a bottle of juice after spending several hours aimlessly browsing the internet.
Scenario 2
Image source: iStock
Jake, Kelly’s kid, wakes up uneasy and comes into bed with her in search of solace. Jake is prompted to discuss his anxieties by Kelly, who replies sympathetically and assures him that they are unfounded. Through guided meditation and deep breathing, she assists Jake in bringing his attention to the present moment and promotes relaxation. Jake gets ready for school while Kelly makes a warm breakfast and plays his favourite music. On the way, Kelly reassures Jake that he can manage his nervousness and that, despite his personality’s occasional challenges, it has its positive aspects. She declares her love for Jake and reassures him that she will always adore him.
Can you see any parallels between each scenario and how you generally speak to or treat yourself when dealing with difficult emotions?
Unfortunately, the way some people speak to themselves when they are anxious is similar to the parent’s behaviour in the first case.
Responding With Compassion
Instead of being tough on your child, consider treating your kid like the mother would treat her child in the second scenario. Accept that the feeling of anxiety is valid and offer your kid compassion and comfort. Here are some things you can do:
1. Recognise and validate your child’s feelings
It’s normal to feel worried, and it’s critical to identify and validate those sentiments. Don’t reject them or tell your kid that they’re unimportant.
2. Focus on the present moment
Anxiety is frequently caused by worrying about the future. Instead, help your child to concentrate on the here and now. By helping your kid to pay attention to the surroundings and taking deep breaths, you can help him ground himself in the present moment.
3. Examine your child’s thoughts
Anxious thoughts are frequently accompanied with stories that are not founded on reality. Frame questions to your child that will help him examine his thoughts and determine if they are true.
4. Treat your kid with kindness
Treat your kid as a caring and conscious parent would treat their child. Provide your child with comfort and reassurance, and remind him that all emotions and thoughts pass.
Image source: iStock
Remember that morning anxiety is common, and it’s important to respond with compassion and comfort. You can help your child to start his day feeling more centred and at ease if you treat him with care and discover techniques to quiet your mind and body.
