For parents and caregivers
Mental health
Stress and anxiety.
Stress can be a response to too many demands or an unsafe situation. Anxiety may be felt in both thoughts and the body.
Understanding the situation
A child may have difficulty sleeping, headaches, stomach aches, trouble concentrating or less energy. These symptoms can have several causes and should be understood in the context of the child's everyday life.
Support may involve reducing pressure, creating predictability and finding adults the child trusts. If anxiety leads to avoidance and increasingly restricted daily life, professional help may be useful.
Turning knowledge into action
What you can do
- Explore together what drains your child's energy at school, at home and online.
- Agree on one concrete change that could make the coming week easier.
- Cooperate with the school when the pressure is linked to the school environment or demands.
Find a way to start
One way to begin
“What is asking the most of you right now? Is there something we adults can help change?”
Use your own words and give your child time to respond. A short conversation can be a good beginning.
More help with the conversationFurther support
When should you seek help?
Contact a school nurse or GP if anxiety persists or affects sleep, school and social life. New or severe physical symptoms should also be medically assessed.
See who you can contactContinue learning
Other useful topics
Sources and further reading
Sources were checked on 1 October 2026. The conversation examples are suggestions from Tidlignok.
This content provides general information. Healthcare professionals can assess your child's symptoms, circumstances and treatment needs.