Nashville Public Schools Offer Tips For Coping With Anxiety

From the Metro Nashville Public Schools:

September 18, 2020

Anxiety is our mind & body’s response to stressful, dangerous or unfamiliar situations. Many children and adults experience anxiety to some degree regularly throughout their lives. When anxiety becomes concerning is when it begins to significantly impact a person’s everyday life. The good news is that anxiety is treatable and can be managed by utilizing healthy coping strategies. Seek help from a mental health provider who can help you develop a plan to manage your child’s anxiety.

Symptoms of Anxiety

• Ask your child for input
• Obsessive fear or worry
• Rapid or trouble breathing
• Sweating, feeling weak or trembling
• Increased or rapid heart rate
• Feeling a sense of impending danger or panic

Coping Strategies

• Abdominal or relaxation breathing
• Mindfulness & grounding
• Physical Exercise & Self-care
• Rest & healthy nutrition
• Set limits & establish healthy boundaries
• Time & organizational management
• Positive self-talk
• Talk with a trusted friend or adult

Helping Your Child with Anxiety

• Listen to your child’s feelings
• Do not get upset with your child for being anxious
• Be flexible, but try to maintain structure and regular schedules
• Educate yourself on anxiety coping skills
• Seek professional help or guidance
• Seek professional help or guidance

Where to Get Help for Anxiety

• Contact your child’s School Counselor or School Social Worker for guidance
• your insurance provider and get connected to a mental health provider trained in anxiety
• www.centerstone.org
• www.mhc-tn-org
• Contact the Family and Student support team.

Download the Tip Sheet: Coping Strategies for Anxious Students

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This press release was produced by the Metro Nashville Public Schools. The views expressed are the author's own.