Learning to practice self-confidence is a crucial component of every child’s development. While worry is a routine emotion in some developmental stages in children, some children struggle with emotional instability more than others. Providing the correct support can do wonders for a child in this pivotal time in their life. Before resorting to drugs to help an emotionally unstable child, try these supporting forces from nature!
Vitamin B
For those who lack self-confidence, it is normal to feel an elevated sense of nervousness, anxiety, and arousal. Vitamin B has been shown to play a role in the production of brain chemicals that affect mood and other brain functions. Individuals deficient in B-Vitamins may even experience symptoms of depression and other mood disorders (1). Try adding foods rich in Vitamin B to your child’s diet to help support their nervous system and adrenals glands. Some great options include whole grains, brown rice, leafy greens, and nuts!
Power of the Passionflower
Native to the Americas, Passionflower has been traditionally used as a calming herb for many years. Still used for symptoms of anxiety and insomnia today, scientists believe it is the increase in the chemical gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) that gives Passionflower its mood-improving reputation. GABA works in the body by lowering certain brain cell activity, giving one a more relaxed, zen-like feeling (2). Passionflower can be dried and prepared into teas – as well as into an herbal tincture, such as that of Native Remedies Mindsoothe Jr.
Eating to Support Your Adrenals
Responsible for your “fight or flight” reaction, your adrenal glands are largely important when experiencing feelings of anxiousness. According to Dr. Josh Axe, in order to support optimal adrenal health, one should try to incorporate these adrenal superfoods into their diet:
- Coconut
- Olives
- Avocado
- Cruciferous vegetables (cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, etc.)
- Fatty fish (e.g., wild-caught salmon)
- Chicken and turkey
- Nuts, such as walnuts and almonds
- Seeds, such as pumpkin, chia, and flax
- Kelp and seaweed
- Celtic or Himalayan sea salt
Positive Reinforcement
Tell them of a job well done! Everyone loves to be complimented, especially when they worked hard to accomplish something. If your child does their homework without asking, makes the honor roll, or just simply helps with chores around the house, be sure to give them some positive reinforcement to boost their confidence and show your appreciation!
Teach Organization for School – Life balance
A child who lacks concentration and organization may feel overwhelmed when trying to balance school, homework, sports, friends, and of course, “me time!” Teaching a child at an early age to prioritize and stay concentrated and organized will set them up to be confident in their ability to complete the tasks at hand. Start by developing a routine for your child that they can become accustomed to, buy them a planner, and set timelines for homework and chore completion. When you no longer have to ask your child to complete their responsibilities, provide incentive! Whether the incentive is a simple compliment, more playtime with friends, or a special outing of their choosing, your child will feel accomplished and confident in themselves.
Want to stay in the loop? Sign up for the latest natural health and complementary medicine news and updates.
Sources
1. Hall-Flavin, M.D. Daniel K. “Vitamin B-12 and depression: Are they related?” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 23 Nov. 2016. Web. 26 July 2017
2. “Passionflower.” University of Maryland Medical Center. N.p., n.d. Web. 26 July 2017.
3. “3 Steps to Heal Adrenal Fatigue Naturally.” Dr. Axe. N.p., 20 July 2017. Web. 26 July 2017.