Families can help children cope with fear and anxiety.
Whether your children have experienced a disaster or other life changes that are frightening, these strategies will help.
- Show them you love them. Give them extra hugs.
- Tell them they are safe.
- Keep daily routines the same (mealtime, bedtime and etc.)
- Focus on the positive.
- Pay attention to what they say and do.
- Give honest, simple, brief answers to their questions.
- Let them talk about it.
- Be patient.
If you have any questions or concerns about their behavior or ability to cope or you just need someone to listen, call the Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985. All calls are free and confidential.
Project Recovery Iowa is for grown ups and teens too.
Project Recovery Iowa is a collaborative program administered by the Iowa Department of Human Services. It is designed to empower those affected by disaster through teaching the stages of disaster reactions and coping skills, assessing needs, and linking individuals to appropriate community resources. If you have questions about stress, legal issues, or financial concerns, you can access support by calling the Iowa Concern Hotline 1-800-447-1985 or the Teen Hotline 1-800-443-8336.
9/15/2008