Although these behaviors may alarm parents, they are only signs of the child's anxiety and parental acceptance will reassure the child and shorten the duration of such behaviors. Children respond to praise and parents should make a deliberate effort to remain calm, patient and realize that this regressive behavior is only temporary. Most of the child's emotional and behavior reactions to a disaster will lessen and disappear over time. This is especially true if parents deal with their own reactions, consistently encourage their children to express their feelings, be patient as children adjust and gradually return to the family's normal routine. If the sleeping problem continues for more than a few nights, if the clinging behavior does not diminish, if the fears become worse, it is time to ask for professional advise.
Most parents are capable of helping their children overcome fears and anxiety.
However, it is not a sign of failure if they feel they are unable to help their children by themselves. A telephone call to a pediatrician, family physician or the local mental health center may be helpful. In some cases advice may be given on the telephone. In other instances, parents will be advised to bring their child for an interview. In cases of severe anxiety, early action will result in a faster return to normalcy.