hard news

THERAPISTS PROVIDE TIPS ON HOW TO DISCUSS NEWS OF TRAGIC EVENTS WITH CHILDREN

 

East County News Service

October 19, 2018 (San Diego) - In the days and weeks following a high-profile tragedy, violent confrontations, mass shootings, or natural disasters, news stories may cause stress and anxiety for the younger audience. It is normal for adults and kids to feel anxious after a devastating event, but there are ways to help minimize the stress and maintain a sense of normalcy.

“With the pervasiveness and invasiveness of TV news and social media, children today have more access to disturbing news and images than ever before. The most common reason I’m seeing for children being referred to therapy (even as young as 4) in the last several years is excessive, and sometimes debilitating, anxiety,” said Susan Kelsey, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist specializing in mental health services for children and adolescents.

Here are a few suggestions for parents to help reduce their child’s risk of becoming overly anxious during trying times:


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