Parents are often stressed and rushing from one appointment to the next. However, it is important to take a closer look, as a recent study shows that stress begins in the nursery. A study by Bepanthen in cooperation with the University of Bielefeld reveals some alarming facts.
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Every Sixth Child and Every Fifth Adolescent Are Affected
Of 1,100 children and adolescents aged 6-11, 18% of children and 19% of adolescents reported feeling stressed. Affected children already suffer from fear of failure, increased difficulty falling asleep, headaches and stomachaches, as well as fatigue. Study leader Professor Holger Ziegler warns parents to pay attention to these “typical burnout symptoms.”
Reasons for Experiencing Stress
Affected children and adolescents describe feeling negatively about not being able to decide independently on activities and having too much leisure stress. Additionally, around 82% of children report excessive household responsibilities, such as handling administrative tasks, caring for siblings, or managing household chores.
Parents Are Under Societal Pressure
When confronted with this issue, about 87% of parents believe they are not overburdening their children. They want the best for their children. Often, parents themselves experience high societal pressure, which they may transfer to their children. This creates a stress spiral with serious consequences for the children. Angry, aggressive, or dissatisfied behavior should alert parents and encourage them to reduce their children’s time pressure.
Family Stress During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Since March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has added to the stress. School closures, major changes in daily routines, quarantine measures, and social isolation have caused high stress levels and post-traumatic stress in children and adults. Symptoms include anxiety, depression, excessive sleep, reduced appetite, and emotional behavioral changes. Parents’ situations also influence their children’s well-being.
Tips for Stress-Free Children
Phytotherapeutic remedies can help calm children. Passionflower, linden blossom, and lemon balm have proven effective, providing calming, antispasmodic, anxiolytic, and relaxing effects. These herbs also promote sleep.
Parents should review their expectations for their children and avoid being influenced by other parents. Each child has their own learning rhythm, and pressure often leads to resistance. Children’s natural curiosity and desire to learn should not be stifled by stress. Children also need space to make independent decisions about activities. Planning together fosters autonomy. A trusting, loving, and stable relationship positively influences children’s behavior.
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Conclusion:
Studies show that stress starts in the children’s environment and that time pressure and lack of autonomy can lead to “burnout symptoms.” Through loving, open relationships with more self-determination and the use of phytotherapeutic remedies, children’s well-being can be supported and stress reduced.
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Sources:
- Cusinato et al. 2020: Stress, Resilience, and well-being in Italian children and their parents during the COVID-19 Pandemic
- International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2020; doi: 10.3390/ijerph17228297
- Prof. Dr. Holger Ziegler et al. 2015: Stress Study 2015: Burnout in the Children’s Room: How Stressed Are Children and Adolescents in Germany?
- Bepanthen Child Development, https://www.bepanthen.de/kinderfoerderung/sozialforschung/stress-bei-kindern
