Stress Relief for Kids: What Parents Can Do ? | Parenting Solutions from Psychologist

Hello, everyone. This is Lagnajita Chatterjee, and I’m back with another insightful discussion. Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Chandrima Bhattacharya, a clinical psychologist and an army veteran, to delve into some important topics that concern us all, especially parents. We will discuss Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), signs of stress in children, and how modern lifestyles impact their mental health. This guide is aimed at helping parents better understand and support their children.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: An Overview
What is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that helps patients understand the thoughts and feelings that influence behaviors. Dr. Chandrima Bhattacharya explains that cognition refers to our thinking processes. For example, seeing a rope and mistakenly thinking it's a snake can lead to fear. CBT aims to correct these distorted thoughts and replace them with more realistic ones.

Key Concepts in CBT:

Cognition: Understanding and thinking about something.
Behavior: Actions resulting from thoughts.
Therapy: Breaking the cycle of distorted thinking to change behavior.
CBT involves identifying and altering negative thought patterns to improve emotional regulation and develop personal coping strategies. This therapy usually requires five to six sessions, spaced 15 days to a month apart, depending on the severity of the thought distortions.

Signs of Stress in Children
Identifying Stress in Children:

Children, unlike adults, often show their stress openly. Dr. Bhattacharya mentions that children who are introverted or do not share their feelings can experience significant stress. Here are some common signs of stress in children:

Irritability: Becoming easily annoyed or frustrated.
Academic Performance: A noticeable drop in school grades or disinterest in schoolwork.
Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities or spending excessive time alone.
Aggressive Behavior: Answering back or displaying anger without clear reasons.
Handling Child Stress:

Open Communication: Parents should create a friendly environment where children feel comfortable sharing their feelings.
Balanced Activities: Ensure children have a mix of academic, extracurricular, and leisure activities.
Professional Help: Seeking a psychologist or counselor when necessary can provide non-judgmental support.
The Impact of Modern Lifestyles on Children
Balancing Work and Family:

In today’s fast-paced world, many parents juggle demanding careers with family responsibilities. Dr. Bhattacharya highlights that while pursuing a career is essential, it’s equally important to spend quality time with children. Here are some strategies:

Family Time: Set aside time for family meals or activities. Even a simple dinner together can strengthen family bonds.
Parental Involvement: Even if parents are busy, showing interest in the child's daily activities can make a significant difference.
Limit Screen Time: Encourage children to engage in activities that do not involve screens, such as reading, playing outside, or family board games.
Dealing with Depression and Loneliness:

Children may experience depression and loneliness due to various factors, including academic pressure and lack of parental attention. Parents and teachers should look for signs like:

Withdrawal: Spending excessive time alone.
Declining Interest: Lack of interest in activities they previously enjoyed.
Academic Decline: Falling grades or disinterest in school.
Stigma in Mental Health:

One major barrier to addressing mental health issues is the stigma associated with them. Dr. Bhattacharya emphasizes the importance of accepting mental health issues as normal illnesses, just like diabetes. Increasing awareness and understanding can help reduce this stigma.

Conclusion
Today's discussion with Dr. Chandrima Bhattacharya sheds light on the importance of understanding cognitive behavioral therapy, identifying stress in children, and balancing modern lifestyle demands. Mental health should be openly discussed and accepted, ensuring that those in need receive the support they deserve.

For further assistance, you can reach Dr. Chandrima Bhattacharya at 917-741-5271. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.