August 2007 News
Friday, August 17, 1007
Wildfire-related Stress: Tips for Talking with Children
The following news release was prepared by the County of Santa Barbara, Office of Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Services, August 16, 2007.
It's important for parents and guardians to know that children can be particularly vulnerable to stress as a result of the fires in Santa Barbara County. Children may suffer from anxiety because they are concerned about the fire.
“It's important for adults to take time with children to help them through this difficult time,” said Suzanne Grimmesey-Kirk, MFT, Division Chief, Adults and Children Services from the County’s Department of Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Services.
Caretakers of children should be alert to signs of trouble and how to handle them. For children ages five or younger, watch for the following behaviors: crying more frequently than usual, clinging, having nightmares, showing excessive fear of the dark, fear of being alone, changing appetites, speaking with difficulty, or returning to outgrown behaviors such as bed-wetting or thumb-sucking.
Children ages five to 11 may exhibit increased irritability, aggression, and competition with their siblings for parental attention. They may also show anxiety through whining, withdrawing from their peers, and losing interest in normal activities. Those 11 to 18 may show outright rebellion, physical problems, or sleep disturbances.
The following suggestions may help to reduce stress in children:
- Keep children informed about what is happening. Explanations should be in simple language.
- Encourage children to talk about wildfire-related events. Children need an opportunity to discuss their experiences and feelings, as well as ask questions, in a safe, accepting environment.
- Remain calm and reassuring. Children take their cues from adults, especially young children.
- Reassure them. Parents can help reassure children by telling them they are safe, holding and hugging them frequently, and making bedtime a special moment of calm and comfort.
- If children don't mention the fire, it can help to ask them about it. If parents don't bring up the subject, children can be left with misinformation. You may be surprised at how much your child has heard from others.
- Focus attention on the helpers, like the police, firemen, doctors, nurses, paramedics and volunteers. It's reassuring to know about caring people who are helping in this world.
- Spend some time each day giving each child your undivided attention, even if just for a few minutes. Share experiences, reaffirm your love, and make plans together.
Parents and guardians must take care of their own needs, dealing with their own reactions as fully as possible. This will make people better able to cope and help their children. They should take care of their physical health by eating healthfully, drinking plenty of fluids, getting enough rest and trying to do things they enjoy. They should avoid using drugs or alcohol to feel better.