The fourth stress category we have identified relates to “situations” the child or teen finds himself in. Some stressors in this category include money worries, family or friends who are in trouble and learning or social skills problems. This final example is often a major concern, as it is often not recognized as serious.
We have found that these learning-related problems produce major stress for both child and parent. Very often the child’s learning problems have not been formally diagnosed and he or she is accused of being lazy or not trying hard enough. In fact, many of these children are trying very hard but aren’t producing the result that parents and teachers are looking for. In turn, much stress and anxiety follows.
The effects of stress are identified by one’s cognitive functioning, behavior, emotionality and by physical pain. In our introduction to stress, let’s get a better idea about warning signs and symptoms stress shows on the human body.
Effects on cognitive functioning can include: Memory problems; inability to concentrate; poor judgment; anxious or racing thoughts and constant worrying.
Behavioral signs of stress include: Eating more or less; sleeping too much or too little; isolating oneself; procrastinating or neglecting responsibilities; using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax and nervous habits like nail biting or pacing.
Emotional symptoms can include: Moodiness; irritability or short temper; agitation or inability to relax; feeling overwhelmed; sense of loneliness and isolation and depression or general unhappiness.
Physical signs could include: Aches and pains; diarrhea or constipation; nausea, dizziness; chest pain, rapid heartbeat; Loss of sex drive and frequent colds.
(To be continued)