Helping our children cope with Stress and Anxiety (Part 1)

Improving our children’s wellbeing is a community effort

The saying ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ is from an African proverb, that means an entire community must play their part in providing a safe, healthy, encouraging and supportive environment for our children to thrive and succeed.

This Pacific Learners video is the first in a three part series that addresses the mental health and wellbeing of our children.

At a time where COVID-19 has significantly impacted our Pacific Communities, we cant forget to focus on the most vulnerable, our elderly and our children.

This video follows little Talia as she tries to cope with the stress and anxiety that is caused by family issues, in particular her father who has lost his job through COVID-19. Although Talia is displaying signs of stress and anxiety, it is her teacher that takes action and addresses the issue with her father.

5 warning signs that our children are under stress

Becoming quiet and withdrawing from family and friends, especially in social settings.
Overreacting to small and minor problems. This is also tied into seeing increased aggression
Trouble concentrating. Completing homework could be a challenge for children with stress and anxiety
Nightmares or bedwetting could be a sign that your child is dealing with stress and anxiety
Eating or Sleeping problems. With stress and anxiety, a child could stay awake worrying and have trouble falling asleep.

If you found this video useful, dont forget to watch Part 2 and 3 of our ‘Coping with Stress and Anxiety’ series

Coping with Stress and Anxiety Part 2 – Importance of communication
Coping with Stress and Anxiety Part 3 – Importance of identity and culture