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Stress in Children and Teens

Table of Contents


Overview

Children and teens notice and react to stress in their family and also feel their own stress. It is important to recognize stress in children and teens and help them with healthy coping strategies. The strategies they learn often stay with them into adulthood.

In general, anything that may cause children fear and anxiety can cause stress. This can include being away from home, starting a new school or moving to a new location, being separated from parents or caregivers, worrying about school and getting along with others, worrying about their changing bodies, and worrying about the future.

Here are some common signs of stress in different age groups:

Signs of stress in children and teens

Preschool and toddlers

Elementary-age children

Preteens and teens

  • Anger
  • Anxiety
  • Problems with eating and sleeping, including nightmares
  • Fear of being alone
  • Irritability
  • Regressing to infant behaviors
  • Trembling with fright
  • Uncontrollable crying
  • Withdrawal
  • Being distrustful
  • Complaining of headaches or stomachaches
  • Feeling unloved
  • Having no appetite
  • Having trouble sleeping
  • Needing to urinate often
  • Wetting the bed
  • Not caring about school or friendship
  • Acting withdrawn
  • Worrying about the future
  • Anger
  • Disillusionment
  • Distrust of the world
  • Low self-esteem
  • Stomachaches and headaches
  • Panic attacks
  • Rebellion

Ways parents can help

Try to reduce stress

Build positive coping skills

Relieve stress in healthy ways


Credits for Stress in Children and Teens

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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