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in collaboration with
Amélie Boukhobza (Clinical psychologist)
When you become a parent, it is common to worry about your child over nothing. How to stop these anxiety-inducing thoughts and live better, without constant anxiety for your offspring? Here are the tips from Amélie Boukhobza, psychologist.
Some parents, more than others, are constantly worried about their children. Between the fear that they will get hurt, the fear that something will happen to them… The daily life of these parents is riddled with anxiety. How to get rid of it? “Stopping worrying about your children is not an easy thing, but essential for the well-being of both parents and children.” recalls psychologist Amélie Boukhobza. Here are some practical tips to get there.
Accept that you can’t control everything
Life is made up of unforeseen events that must be accepted. If this can easily be put in place for oneself, accepting that these unforeseen events affect our children is sometimes more complex. “IIt’s important to put things into perspective and accept that we can’t control everything.” believes Amélie Boukhobza. “This is the prerequisite to accept in the first place: to say to ourselves that certain things necessarily escape us and that we agree with that.”
Trust your children
Again, this is easier said than done. However, it is essential to trust your child. “That is to say, setting a previously discussed framework and limits and believing that they can respect them. And if they transgress them, remind them again” explains the expert.
Think about the present moment
Another tip from our specialist: focus on the present moment. “Enjoying the moments spent together, rather than worrying about the future, helps to defuse anxieties.” adds the psychologist.
Know when to really worry
Children go through different stages in their development. “The best thing is to know them, to know when to worry. This can help distinguish real problems from unfounded concerns.” she recommends again.
Talk openly with your child
Your child also feels our concerns. To resolve these unfounded anxieties, the solution is to discuss them. “Using age-appropriate words and language each time” recommends the expert.
Exchange with other parents
Seeing that other parents don’t worry that much about their own children puts things into perspective. “Knowing that others are going through similar challenges can be reassuring, too.” estimates Amélie Boukhobza, who therefore advises stressed parents to “share experiences with other parents both to offer each other support and perspectives.”
Talk about it with your partner
If you are nervous about accompanying your child to do an activity that you consider “dangerous”, consider passing the baton to your partner. “Helping each other and passing the baton whenever necessary is essential.” recalls the psychologist. “During this time, taking time for yourself, for your own interests and needs, will benefit you immensely. Focus on physical exercise, good nutrition and leisure activities to reduce the stress of your body!” concludes the expert.
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