Children's Fears: The "BIG Three" - External Threats Meet Personal Worries

Children and young people are growing up in a time marked by multiple global crises: the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and the climate crisis - these "BIG THREE", a term I coined, are constant topics in the media and in everyday life. External threats meet children's existing fears, such as pressure to perform at school, social insecurities or family challenges. What is particularly worrying is that these crises not only create new worries, but also exacerbate existing mental disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Studies show that psychological stress among children and young people has increased significantly since the beginning of the pandemic. While symptoms such as anxiety, social withdrawal or concentration problems are increasing for many, society's response to these consequences is often inadequate. Schools continue to work according to the curriculum, while topics such as war, climate change and fears about the future are rarely actively addressed. Parents notice changes in their children's behavior, but there are often no contact points or strategies for support.

1. The ongoing consequences of the corona pandemic and the latent threat

The corona pandemic has left deep scars that are still visible today. Many children continue to struggle with anxiety, social insecurity and changes in leisure behavior. The loss of family members and years of isolation have permanently shaken many people's sense of security. Especially for children who were already struggling with social anxiety or concentration problems before the pandemic, these symptoms were exacerbated by the constant confrontation with frightening news and isolation.

social contacts

After the pandemic, many children find it difficult to resume social contact. The long periods of isolation have caused friendships to break up, and social interactions now seem unfamiliar or stressful. Particularly affected are reserved children who continue to withdraw, which is exacerbated by the increasing consumption of digital media . The increased use of computers and smartphones has become permanent among many children and young people, so that they are increasingly looking for security and control in the digital world. However, this virtual escape has also made it more difficult for them to engage in personal encounters and longer conversations.

In addition to the direct consequences of the pandemic, the latent threat of another crisis also causes persistent psychological stress. The idea that a similar pandemic could occur again at any time remains present in the minds of many children and adults. This constant uncertainty leads to a feeling of threat, which manifests itself in increased concern about one's own health, sleep disorders and fear of returning to social life. The psychological stress caused by this latent fear is exacerbated by the lack of adequate support. Many children who already had existing anxiety, depression or concentration problems during the pandemic are experiencing a worsening of their symptoms. Unfortunately, many of them still do not have access to adequate psychotherapeutic help. Waiting times for treatment by child and adolescent psychiatrists are long and in many cases the necessary support is not forthcoming.

The long-term effects of the pandemic on the mental health of children and young people have been proven by studies. A long-term study by the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) shows that to date, one in three children suffers from increased anxiety, depressive moods or social withdrawal. Children who experienced losses during the pandemic or had little support in their family environment are particularly badly affected. According to a survey by the German Society for Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, many teachers report that children still have fewer social skills and find it more difficult to integrate into groups.

While society appears to be returning to normality, the fears of many children remain unheeded. These long-lasting psychological stresses, which are exacerbated by the corona pandemic and the latent threat of future crises, represent a social challenge that urgently requires more attention - including in everyday school life.

2. War, geopolitical uncertainty and the retreat of world powers

The ongoing coverage of the war in Ukraine and the geopolitical instability exacerbated by this conflict is a constant source of fear for many children. They see news reports of casualties, destruction and escalating violence that is having a tangible impact in Europe itself. Particularly frightening is the idea that a global war, perhaps even a nuclear conflict, could destroy the world.

Another factor that is increasing fears is the perception that the world order is faltering. America, once a stabilizing power, is increasingly withdrawing from its responsibilities for Europe. The threat that the United States will no longer intervene sufficiently in geopolitical crises is making many children feel that the world is becoming even more uncertain. They sense that the stability they once took for granted is no longer there.

Concretely in everyday life The fears of children

Children do not experience the current crises in the abstract, but as a direct threat to their security. The loss of control they experienced during the pandemic continues in a world marked by geopolitical uncertainty and fears of war. News about the Ukraine war, conflicts in the Middle East and possible threats of nuclear escalation are omnipresent. They hear talk about rising military spending, the US withdrawal from global commitments and an unstable world order.

These insecurities often manifest themselves in everyday life as concrete fears: children withdraw, develop sleep disorders or are overly concerned about the safety of their family. Some react with an increased need for control - be it through rigid routines, compulsive news reading or retreating into digital worlds. Others show concentration problems because the diffuse fear of an uncertain tomorrow dominates their thoughts.

Children who have grown up with the feeling that the world could fall apart at any time due to the pandemic are particularly affected. They are not only experiencing personal insecurities, but also a fundamental fear for their

Future: Will there be war? Are we in danger? What is happening to our world? These questions are more present than ever for many children today.

3. Climate Change: The Destruction of the Future

   
   

Natural disasters such as heat waves, floods and forest fires are no longer distant events - they are happening right on our doorsteps. Children experience that summers are getting hotter, water is becoming scarce or streets are suddenly flooded. Images of burning forests, starving animals or flooded cities give them the feeling that the world is falling apart. The constant reporting on climate disasters increases the fear that the earth is being irreversibly destroyed. What does this mean for their future? Will their habitat still be habitable?

Concretely in everyday life - The fears of children

Many children react to this threat with deep fears about the future. They ask themselves questions like: "Is it even worth studying or starting a family anymore?" Some develop a strong environmental awareness and try to make a difference with their behavior - for example by eating a vegan diet or not flying. Others feel powerless because they see that adults are doing too little to stop climate change.

Some children suffer from "climate anxiety" (eco-anxiety) - a deep fear of the consequences of global warming. This manifests itself in sleep disorders, feelings of panic or withdrawal from social activities. Particularly distressing is the perception that the world is in crisis while politicians are acting slowly or inadequately. This reinforces the feeling that their generation must bear the brunt of the climate crisis without having any real control over the situation.

How do these fears manifest themselves in children’s everyday lives?

The fears triggered by the current crises and political changes are reflected in children’s everyday lives in various ways:

• Behavioral problems: Children often react with withdrawal, aggression, or outbursts of anger. A child who is afraid of war might wake up at night and call for his parents, afraid of losing them. These fears prevent the child from relaxing or enjoying daily routines.

• concentration problems: Constant worry about global events and their impact on their families can lead to children having trouble concentrating in school. Thoughts about the political situation or the health of their parents affect their ability to focus on homework or conversations with friends.

• Physical symptoms: Children who live with intense anxiety often complain of physical discomfort such as stomach aches, headaches or nausea. These symptoms occur especially when the child is confronted with external threats and the resulting uncertainties.

Differentiation from clinical disorders

It is important to understand that these external threats are not directly equivalent to clinical disorders such as anxiety disorders or depression, but can rather intensify existing fears and worries. The BIG THREE are social phenomena that create psychological stress and make life difficult for children and young people, but do not automatically cause clinical illnesses. But in many cases, they can develop into serious psychological stress that impairs the quality of life of children.

While the fears triggered by the "BIG THREE" are understandable and relatable, it is important to differentiate between general worries and clinical mental disorders . Clinical disorders such as anxiety disorders, depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) require sound therapeutic treatment. If a child shows symptoms that go beyond the normal level - such as extreme avoidance of everyday activities, persistent sadness or excessive fears that severely limit the child's life - professional support is urgently needed.

Parents can take the first step by being attentive to their children's emotional needs and being open to discussion, but if signs of serious disturbances are present, professional help should be sought to ensure appropriate diagnosis and support.

What parents can do specifically to support their children

1. Open communication: Parents should provide a safe space for their children to talk about their fears and worries. It is important that children are allowed to express their feelings without feeling judged. Parents should actively listen, remain calm and understanding, even if children's fears may seem irrational.

2. Provide realistic information: Parents should inform their children about current events in an age-appropriate manner. No secrets! Fears can be alleviated by putting the actual risks into perspective without spreading unnecessary panic.

3. Provide routines and stability: A clear daily routine with regular meals, times for homework and leisure activities gives children a feeling of security and control. Especially after the pandemic, a regular structure is important to help children stabilize themselves.

4. Promote social contact: Parents can encourage their children to socialize again - whether through video calls, shared activities or attending extracurricular programs. Small, confidential meetings can be especially helpful for shy children.

5. Limiting screen time: Too much digital media use increases feelings of isolation. Parents should ensure that their children spend time in the real world, such as taking walks, playing games or engaging in creative activities.

6. Increase health awareness: Regular exercise, sufficient sleep and a healthy diet are important for mental well-being. Parents can help their children develop healthy habits.

7. Promote cognitive and emotional skills: Parents can support their children in regulating difficult feelings, for example through mindfulness exercises or problem-solving strategies.

8. Seek professional help: If the stress does not subside despite these measures, parents should not hesitate to seek professional help, be it from child and adolescent psychotherapists or counseling services.

9. Parental self-care: Parents should also look after their own mental health by taking regular breaks and seeking support when needed. A healthy balance has a positive impact on children's well-being.

10. Be a positive role model: Parents can teach their children through their own behavior how to deal constructively with stress, fears and insecurities. Calm, reflective behavior strengthens children's confidence in their own ability to deal with crises.

    
    
    
    
    
    

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The Fears of Children