When parents go to a child psychologist to ask what they can do to support their child struggling with anxiety I always start by saying that you, as parents, are the expert of your child. You have known them for all their lives and have learnt intricate details about their strengths and particular areas of difficulty. Anxiety is a common mental health concern among children and adolescents, and it can have a significant impact on their daily lives, including their ability to succeed in school and form healthy relationships. As a parent, it can be really distressing to watch your child struggle with anxiety, but there are many things you can do to support them at home.

1. Educate yourself about anxiety: Understanding the signs and symptoms of anxiety, as well as the different types of anxiety disorders, can help you better understand your child's experience. This knowledge can also help you communicate more effectively with your child, their teachers, and healthcare professionals.

2. Create a safe and supportive environment at home: Children with anxiety need a safe and supportive environment where they can relax and feel comfortable. This may include creating a designated "safe space" in your home where your child can go when they are feeling anxious, or establishing a regular routine that includes quiet time or relaxation activities.

3. Encourage open communication: Encourage your child to talk about their feelings and experiences, and be a good listener. Let them know that they can come to you with any concerns, and be patient and understanding when they do.

4. Help your child develop coping skills: There are many different coping skills that can help children manage their anxiety. These may include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, visualization, or mindfulness techniques. Encourage your child to try different coping skills and find what works best for them.

5. Seek professional help: If your child's anxiety is impacting their ability to function in school or at home, it may be helpful to seek the help of a mental health professional. A therapist or counselor can work with your child to develop coping strategies and teach them how to manage their anxiety.

6. Be a role model: Children often learn by watching and mimicking their parents. Show your child how to deal with stress and anxiety in a healthy way

7. Prioritise parent self-care. Parenting a child with anxiety can be emotionally distressing for any parent. It is really important that parents look after themselves first, in order to be able to support and care for your child.

In conclusion, as a parent, you are the expert of your own child and therefore have a crucial role in helping to make things better. It is important to understand that anxiety is a common mental health concern among children and adolescents, and there are many things you can do to support your child at home. Create a safe and supportive environment, encourage open communication, help your child develop coping skills, seek professional help when necessary and be a role model. Practice parent self-care and with your support, your child can learn to manage their anxiety and live a balanced, health life.