Disasters and Scary Events: Helping Children Cope

• 2021

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About

This document describes ways parents can help children cope with disasters and scary events. It suggests limiting media exposure, keeping routines, being honest, and offering comfort. Parents should watch for changes in their child’s mood or behavior and talk openly about feelings. Children may need extra support like hugs or leaving a light on at night. Using family values and faith can help reassure kids. If a child shows lasting anxiety, sadness, anger, or trouble at school or with friends, it may be time to seek professional help. Taking care of yourself also helps your child feel safe.

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Tags

Focus Areas: Mental Health; Natural Disasters; Violence

Audience: Families & Children

Emergency Management Stages: Mitigation; Response; Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Keywords: Anxiety; Child; Disasters; Emotions; Family Relations; Social Support; Stress, Psychological; Parenting; Media Exposure

Institutions: Seattle Children's Hospital

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More like this

Disaster Mental Health for Children: Mental Health Tips and Tricks for Kids 2018 · Minnesota Department of Health The Role of Public Health in Mental and Behavioral Health in Children and Families Following Disasters 2009 · University of Washington, University of Oklahoma, Fielding Graduate University, Seattle Children's Hospital, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Helping Children and Adolescents Cope With Traumatic Events 2022 · National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

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The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only. It does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

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