TELL-TALE SIGNS AND WAYS TO HELP

l PHYSICAL SIGNS if your child has lost their appetite or isn’t sleeping, they may be struggling with anxiety. chat to them and if they agree they’re not coping, suggest you both go to the Gp for advice. teenagers with an anxiety disorder are more likely to develop clinical depression, so early intervention is key.

l A LASTING LOW MOOD make time to talk and reassure them you are on their side. if they say everything is ok, leave it a couple of days and then have another chat.

l LACK OF INTEREST if your child has lost interest in once-loved activities, try to reengage them. if they seem down and can’t say what’s changed, they may need help.

l ANGER Feelings like anxiety or depression can be overwhelming for children, which may cause anger. meet it with empathy and reassurance – when they’re calm, it’ll be easier for them to talk about their feelings.

l BAD BEHAVIOUR if your child is getting into trouble, ask yourself if this is a symptom of how they feel and put support strategies in place. see the school counsellor or nurse.