Children And Divorce: Common Signs Of Distress And How Therapy Can Help Your Child
Posted on: 8 March 2016
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It's common for children of divorcing parents to go through a time of struggle. For some children, this time will pass quickly and without much issue. For other children, however, the signs of distress can be more pronounced and require professional help. Below is an overview of what signs of distress you should be aware of in your child, and how child and adolescent therapy can help your child during this time.
What Signs of Distress Should I Be Aware Of?
This is a time of great upheavl and stress for your child, and it's important to be aware of the issues they may be going through.
It's not uncommon for children of divorce to experience separation anxiety and anger. Even if both parents will continue to play an active part in their child's life, the child will still experience feelings of loss. Your child may fear sleeping alone and they may get upset when you leave their sights, even for a moment. Anxiety can show itself in a number of ways, including a change in eating habits, an increase in aggressive behaviors, and poor health.
When Should I Seek Out the Help of a Therapist for My Child?
If your child is experiencing any of the symptoms above, even if they seem minor and short lived, it wouldn't hurt to have them talk with a child and adolescent therapist.
A child and adolescent therapist can help your child to cope with the changes that they're going through, and can help you to understand your child's feelings. There's no such thing as a problem too minor when it comes to pediatric therapy, so don't think that your child needs to be displaying extreme symptoms or having an emotional crisis to benefit from therapy.
If My Child Doesn't Appear to be Struggling, Should They See a Therapist Anyway?
While divorce doesn't effect all children in the same ways, even if your child doesn't appear to be struggling, it can be beneficial to meet with a therapist while the divorce is taking place to ensure that your child adjusts comfortably and without issue.
Some children are better at hiding their feelings than others, but there's no doubt that your divorce will effect your child in some way. Even if your child is adamant that they're fine, visiting a therapist can provide you with peace of mind that your child is dealing with their feelings in a safe and healthy way. In a few sessions' time, your child's therapist can determine whether further therapy would benefit your child, or whether with the proper parental supports, your child can continue to handle the divorce in their own healthy way.
If you're concerned about your child's mental and emotional wellbeing during your divorce, consider seeking out the services of a child and adolescent therapist. Click here for info on counseling.