Understanding and Supporting Stressed-Out Kids
Stress isn’t limited to adults; children of all ages can experience it too. While childhood is often seen as carefree, kids face pressures to live up to expectations from family, teachers, and friends. From academic achievements to extracurricular pursuits, the quest for excellence can lead to burnout, even for youngsters without the responsibilities of adulthood.
Here are some tips to support the well-being and growth of our children, through recognizing and addressing stress in kids.
Identifying Stress in Kids
Children may not always express their stress openly. As parents or caregivers, we should be attentive to physical signs like frequent headaches, upset stomachs, sleep disturbances, or bedwetting.
Stress triggers the brain’s response to challenges or threats through the hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and the sympathetic nervous system (SNS). Hormones like cortisol, epinephrine, and norepinephrine are released, providing the energy needed to handle stress. However, if the brain remains in a constant state of alertness, it becomes challenging to calm down and relax.
The Impact of Technology
Excessive use of technology and electronic devices can overwhelm the nervous system with bright lights and sounds, disrupting synapse formation and brain development, and potentially hindering thinking and learning pathways.
The Consequences of Stress
Chronic stress diverts the body’s resources to provide short-term energy and stamina, affecting non-essential functions. If stress hormones like cortisol remain high, it can lead to health conditions like high blood pressure, chronic fatigue, depression, and pediatric diabetes. Moreover, early-life chronic stress has been linked to behavioral and emotional problems in children. Studies suggest that stress can cause lasting structural and functional changes in a child’s brain, potentially affecting them permanently.
Addressing Stress with Therapeutic Options and More
Promoting a healthy and balanced diet is a crucial first step in managing stress in kids. Research has linked certain vitamins and minerals to mood support, such as Vitamins C, D, and E, B vitamins, and minerals like calcium, chromium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and selenium.
Supporting Neurotransmitter Balance
For kids experiencing symptoms of anxiety, certain supplements can provide calming support. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter and an essential component of the body’s stress-fighting mechanism. GABA promotes relaxation by increasing alpha brain wave activity and reducing beta brain wave activity, associated with scattered thoughts. L-theanine, found in green tea, and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) can also help improve stress perception and support a sense of calmness.
Emphasizing Lifestyle Support
Physical activity is important for reducing stress in kids and overall well-being. It boosts endorphin release, naturally improving mood, energy levels, and reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. Regular physical activity also promotes better sleep and lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Supporting Neurotransmitter Balance
For kids experiencing symptoms of anxiety, certain supplements can provide calming support. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter and an essential component of the body’s stress-fighting mechanism. GABA promotes relaxation by increasing alpha brain wave activity and reducing beta brain wave activity, associated with scattered thoughts. L-theanine, found in green tea, and 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) can also help improve stress perception and support a sense of calmness.
Emphasizing Lifestyle Support
Physical activity is important for reducing stress in kids and overall well-being. It boosts endorphin release, naturally improving mood, energy levels, and reducing anxiety and depression symptoms. Regular physical activity also promotes better sleep and lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Morgan Compounding: Supporting Stress Free Kids
Managing stress in kids is crucial for their current and future well-being. Initiating open and understanding conversations with them is essential. Remember that each child processes emotions differently, and it’s vital to respect their individuality. Offer your support and introduce healthy coping mechanisms to help them overcome stress.
Our pharmacists can provide expert advice on which supplements you should be taking, and they can compare different types, brands, and dosage so that you receive the maximum amount of supplement necessary.
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For more information and inquiries on supplements for support and compounded medication, get in touch with Morgan Compounding Pharmacy today, the most trusted health services in Alpharetta, GA and beyond.