Stories about war, violence and hate crime can cause anxiety, anger and depression in kids -- here's how to discuss bad news with your children
Retrieved on:
Thursday, January 4, 2024
We know from much academic work in this area that we see an increase in anxiety, in worries, in fears, in depression and, sometimes, an increase in anger.
Key Points:
- We know from much academic work in this area that we see an increase in anxiety, in worries, in fears, in depression and, sometimes, an increase in anger.
- We see an increased sense of hopelessness, and then, at the extreme, an increase in risk for suicide.
- How should parents prepare for a conversation with their children about hate and hate crimes, war and violence?
- Robin Gurwitch: Before we even begin to talk to our children, as adults we have to put in place our thoughts and feelings.
- What are the values and beliefs that we hold in the face of these types of events?
- Talk to friends and other trusted relatives to make sure that you have a handle on your emotions.
- What specific advice do you have for talking to very young children – and to older children?
- Robin Gurwitch: With really young children, under preschool age and younger, they probably don’t know and won’t understand what’s going on.
Robin Gurwitch receives funding from SAMHSA. Some of my efforts are funded as part of the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, which is funded by SAMHSA. All work is non-profit. All funds for salary support go through my employer, not directly to me.