Tuesday, March 16, 2010

A recent article, appearing in the February 2010 issue of the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry found that asthma severity is related to the development of separation anxiety symptoms in children. In addition, predictable family routines, such as family mealtimes, can help alleviate some of the anxiety symptoms in this group of children.

In this study, it was found that supportive family interactions during family mealtimes helps increase a child's sense of security, and therefore, eases separation anxiety symptoms. In addition, when children are less anxious, their lung function improves. It is important to realize that family members play an important role in helping children manage their asthma symptoms, and a supportive family environment, with predictable routines, helps put a child at ease. This is compared to a chaotic, unresponsive environment, which would promote worry and anxiety in children. Children thrive on regularity and predictability. The researchers also suggested that family mealtimes allow an opportunity for family members to discuss their child's current symptoms, remind their children to take their medications, ask about doctor's visits, and make sure they have a supply of emergency medication on hand at all times.