Seeing Anxiety Through a Child's Perspective: Practical Tips from Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes
If their parents abandon them or if their parents go out to work and never come home because they got killed in a traffic accident, heaven forbid, you know that is really threatening, because what do I do if you don't come home? You know, after The Age Of Two, children realize that you're probably going to come home.
Imagine being a child and feeling scared or worried but not having the words to explain it. That's the focus of this episode of the 'Counselor Toolbox Podcast with DocSnipes'. Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes dives deep into understanding anxiety from a child's viewpoint, offering practical advice for caregivers, counselors, and anyone working with kids. She explains how children often show anxiety in ways adults might not recognize, like nail biting, skin picking, or even frequent trips to the bathroom. Dr.
Snipes also highlights how a child's developmental stage can shape their fears and worries, making it essential to tailor interventions accordingly. She stresses the importance of a stable and reassuring environment, especially if the child is dealing with the chaos of parental substance abuse or mental health issues. Cognitive distortions and how to correct them are another key topic, as Dr. Snipes provides tools like deep breathing and visualization to help kids cope.
For anyone looking to better understand and support anxious children, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and practical tips.