A self-help guide to assist children in navigating the ongoing crisis has been released, packed with self-regulation strategies from a licensed clinical psychologist.
According to American Mission Hospital clinical psychologist Dr Feba Percy Paul, who developed the Mental Health Capsule: Self Help for young minds guide, the ongoing Iranian attacks in Bahrain have led to a ‘concerning rise’ in children experiencing panic attacks during the night.
She also noted that health providers are calling on parents and caregivers to provide a supportive environment at home in these difficult times.
“We’ve noticed a concerning rise in children experiencing panic attacks during the night,” Dr Feba told GulfWeekly, adding that emergency and night shift paediatricians requested that she prepare this guide.
“Parents and caregivers are having a tough time getting to calm and assure a child during blasts. These tips might look simple but when practised in real time, it’s a great relief.”
According to Dr Feba, children and adults process war trauma differently due to their developmental stages.
Children’s brains are still developing, so trauma often manifests through behavioural changes, fears, and emotional expressions like nightmares or withdrawal.
“They may understand and cope with trauma through play or drawing, but it can impact their emotional growth long-term,” she explained.
“Adults, with more developed cognitive abilities, tend to process trauma through understanding and reflection, but may also experience chronic stress, guilt, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
“Both groups require tailored support to help them heal, considering their unique ways of experiencing and expressing trauma.”
Dr Feba noted that some of the children she is seeing in these times are struggling to regulate their emotions because of unstable domestic relationships.
“There are many homes with unstable parenting and relationships and children are struggling to regulate their emotions - the battle at home is more difficult to fight,” she explained.
Strong social support, stable relationships, a sense of safety and positive coping skills are key to building resilience amongst children.
While some are able to remain hopeful and continue their daily routines, other children may feel the danger more intensely, especially if they lack support, and experience heightened fear which can hinder their ability to self-regulate.
The AMH mental health capsule covers coping tips for children like taking deep breaths, drawing and colouring their feelings and doing something selfless, as well as a quick strategy to centre oneself during moments of crisis.
&uuid=(email))