Anxiety about my kids inheriting my issues

RyanRegular

2d ago·1 min read

Anyone else worried their kids are gonna pick up on their anxiety? My oldest is 7 and I've noticed him getting nervous about stuff that seems pretty normal. I'm trying to keep my own panic attacks hidden but I wonder if he can sense it anyway. Started therapy a few months ago and it's helping but man, the guilt is real. Wondering if I should talk to his teacher about it or if I'm just being paranoid.

3 comments187 views

Comments(3)

LLucas M.New Dad2d ago

I think about this with my kids constantly. The thing is, just being aware of it puts you way ahead. My therapist told me that kids don't inherit anxiety, they learn anxiety responses. So if you're working on managing yours, that's what she'll learn instead. You're already doing the work.

BBrian M.New Dad1d ago

Has your 7 year old shown actual signs of anxiety or are you just worried she might? Because there's a big difference. If she has, maybe talking to her pediatrician about it could help you figure out what's actually going on versus what you're projecting. Not trying to be harsh, just asking.

DDavid M.Regular1d ago

My oldest started picking up on my stress last year and it was brutal to see. Went to therapy and it genuinely helped. For me AND for him. He's like a different kid now that I'm managing it better. Not saying it's easy but it's worth it.