Did you know that 7% of Kiwi children have been diagnosed with anxiety by 11 years of age, with this rising to around 11% at age 15, and around 20% at 18 years of age?

Generally, a younger child will display signs of stress and anxiety through their behaviour. They may express how they are feeling through a tummy ache, thumb sucking, temper tantrums or moodiness. It is parents’ or guardians’ roles to provide them with emotional support to manage and relax these feelings from an early age. 

Children can sometimes become stressed and irritable when dealing with disappointment, adapting to change in routine, school challenges, healthcare visits, and challenges with learning and creativity – to name a few scenarios – which to adults seem small, but to children can be key moment of developing a strong emotional mindset for life. 

As the child gets older and becomes a teenager, they start to show stress in more complex ways. Teens go through puberty and hormonal changes which can affect their mental health, sleep, diet, and emotions. This is a key time where parents need to positively support mental overactivity, so teens develop skills to manage stresses as an adult in a constructive way. 

Teenage years are crucial for developing an identity and self-discovery but are consumed with academic and future pressures, decision-making, learning to drive, and learning how to deal with conflict in relationships, whether with peers or family. These huge milestones can lead to waves of fear, poor self-esteem, restlessness, and lack of confidence if not managed in a nurturing way. In theory, you may believe teenagers simply snap out of moments of sadness, poor body image and low confidence, but they need adult support with a positive mindset. This is key in helping them overcome the daily hurdles that could easily derail their ability to enjoy their day and succeed. 

Bach Flowers are a system of natural medicine, utilised since the 1930s in children and teenagers, that effectively address emotional disharmony. Bach Flowers are non-habit forming and natural in supporting the change of a negative mindset to one that’s more positive. 

Bach Flowers are effective in supporting symptoms of irritability and restlessness in children. The combination of clematis, impatiens and scleranthus synergistically works to gently support the mood state of children and create a healthy mind for those who are not coping in their day. They are key in supporting a positive mindset for all teenagers to navigate their daily lives and challenges.

Key Bach flower remedies for teenagers include:

-          Crab Apple to support comfort and pride in appearance

-          Larch for support with improved positive self-esteem

-          Mimulus for when fear prevents a teenager from shining. 

Fostering a positive emotional mindset in children and teenagers is paramount in addressing the growing rate of stress and worry among young people. During these critical stages of life, it is essential to support emotional well-being. Rest & Quiet Bach Flower Remedies offer a natural approach to addressing disharmony in children and teenagers. The range is alcohol-free and uses the original Bach Flower potency. 

Always read the label and take as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional. Vitamins and minerals are supplementary to a balanced diet.

Martin & Pleasance, Melbourne, Victoria.