Stress Signs to Watch For
(from NASP)

Watch for potential child/adolescent stress reactions:
Most children will not be affected by economic events and many who are will be able to cope with concerns over current events either independently or with the help of parents and other caring adults. However, some children may have more extreme reactions because of personal circumstances. Symptoms may differ depending on age. Adults should contact a professional if children exhibit significant changes in behavior or any of the following symptoms over an extended period of time.

• Preschoolers - thumb sucking, bedwetting, clinging to parents, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, fear of the dark, regression in behavior, withdrawal from friends and routines.
• Elementary School Children - irritability, aggressiveness, clinginess, nightmares, school avoidance, poor concentration, withdrawal from activities and friends.
• Adolescents - sleeping and eating disturbances, agitation, increase in conflicts, physical complaints, delinquent behavior and poor concentration.

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