According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 31 percent of adults in the U.S. have suffered from an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, but what about stress in children? Anxiety disorders can develop from a combination of risk factors, including genetics and brain chemistry, and lifestyle factors such as stress.
That percentage holds true for adolescents as well, with the prevalence being higher in girls than in boys.
Data from the American Institute of Stress has estimated that between 75 to 90 percent of visits to primary care physicians are for stress-related concerns, and stress is affecting the lives of children as well.
In fact, the American Psychological Association has reported that approximately 33 percent of children experience stress-related symptoms, including problems with sleep, headaches and upset stomach.
Children may have problems at school that cause stress, such as a strict teacher or a hard time making friends.
A number of natural remedies have shown promise in helping with anxiety and stress in kids. Here are a few to consider.
Homeopathic Remedies for Stress in Children
Homeopathic treatments for stress in kids such as Bach Rescue Remedy Natural Relief for Kids can help relieve current stress symptoms and prevent future occurrences.
The ingredients in this product include rock rose, clematis, impatiens, cherry plum and Star of Bethlehem, which are noted to reduce restlessness and irritability as well as calming nerves.
B Vitamins for Stress Response
B vitamins work to support the central nervous system and are essential for a healthy stress response.
Vitamin B6 in particular is involved in more than 100 enzyme pathways in the body, including metabolism and creation of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Our bodies don’t make vitamin B6, so it is necessary to obtain the essential vitamin from foods such as meat and fish or through supplementation.
Terry Naturally Calm Kids contains B6, as well as other nutrients that support brain health, such as DHA oil (an omega-3 fatty acid) and rhodiolarosea, a popular adaptogenic herb.