I have all sorts of tricks for when I worry too much, because I do worry — too much and too often. Worrying happens to be a family trait. Unfortunately, that means I have a pint-sized worrier in my own house, and he can’t self-medicate with Mad Men repeats and lots of chocolate (because I ate it all first). This is where handy self-help books can come in, provided they are, in fact, helpful. And I happen to have found one.
What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety
is an interactive book designed for kids somewhere between 6 and 12
years. The book guides the reader through basic cognitive-behavioral
techniques that are most often used in the treatment of generalized
anxiety. It also explains anxiety using simple, friendly language, some
metaphors and lots of kid-friendly illustrations.
We did the drawing and writing prompts together, including things like
conceptualizing a “Worry Bully” for each of us, and designing a safe,
imaginary place where we can lock up our worries when they threaten to
become overwhelming.
The book comes with worksheets, but like us, you may want to use
separate pieces of paper, because this feels like a private project.
Also, one I suspect we’ll come back to again when we need to. –Barbara
What to Do When You Worry Too Much: A Kid’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety by Dawn Huebner is available from our affiliate Amazon.
