We were very surprised to discover that babies, so small and dependent, can also suffer from stress, a condition that we usually associate with adults. However, just a few weeks ago, on a television program focused on motherhood, we discovered that they can also be affected by stress. Immediately, we felt the need to investigate further on the subject and gather information so that you can identify if your baby is going through a stressful situation.
El StressIn any person, stress is the body's natural response to external factors that disturb emotional balance. Just as in adults, stress in babies is also driven by the release of a hormone called cortisol, which is crucial for managing stressful situations. The problem arises when this hormone is not properly balanced, negatively affecting the well-being of the little ones.
What causes stress in babies?
It is important to know that babies can experience stress for a variety of reasons. They are fragile and dependent beings, so situations that adults would consider manageable can become overwhelming for them. Some of the main causes of stress in babies include:
- Diseases: If the baby is sick, has a fever, or suffers from some physical ailment, this can cause discomfort and affect them emotionally.
- Environmental factors: Loud noises, excessive heat or cold, sudden changes in light, and overly crowded places can be strong stress triggers in babies.
- Hunger or sleepiness: If a baby has not been fed or rested enough, he or she will begin to feel agitated and anxious.
- Dirty or uncomfortable diaper: This is one of the most common reasons why babies feel unwell. Having a wet or dirty diaper for a long time can cause stress.
- Lack of attention or physical contact: Babies require constant attention. Lack of cuddles, hugs or being away from their caregivers makes them feel insecure.
- Arguments or tension at home: Babies are extremely sensitive to their home environment. Frequent arguments between parents or a stressful home environment can affect them more than we think.
It is essential to create an environment that minimizes these factors and offers the baby a safe and relaxed space.
How does stress manifest itself in babies?
One of the main signs of stress in babies is crying. However, it is not just any kind of crying, but a deep, sharp and sustained cry that expresses inconsolability. But crying is not the only sign. Here are some other key manifestations:
- Sleep disturbances: Lack of sleep or constant waking up at night may indicate that the baby is going through a period of stress.
- Feeding problems: Stressed babies tend to eat less or have difficulty feeding.
- Less interaction: If your baby was previously sociable and played often, but suddenly becomes withdrawn or avoids eye contact, he or she may be experiencing stress.
- Irregular breathing: Changes in breathing rate, excessive yawning, or continuous hiccups are other possible signs that something is not right.
- Tics or repetitive movements: Some babies may begin to perform repetitive movements such as excessive thumb sucking or scratching.
How to prevent and reduce stress in babies?
To prevent stress in babies or help them relax if they are already suffering from it, it is essential that parents and caregivers offer a safe and caring environment. Some useful strategies include:
- Establish routines: Predictable routines and schedules provide comfort to babies, who need a stable daily rhythm so they know what to expect.
- Cover all your physical needs: Meeting hunger, sleep, and comfort (diaper changing) needs in a timely manner helps them feel secure.
- Encourage physical and emotional contact: Babies need frequent physical contact, hugs, caresses and affectionate words, which give them a sense of love and security.
- Avoid overstimulation: Sometimes babies get overwhelmed by too much stimulation (lights, noises, constant visitors). Creating a calm environment free of excessive stimulation will help them relax.
- Keeping adults calm: Babies pick up on their caregivers' emotions easily. If parents are stressed, babies are likely to sense this and become upset.
- Eye contact and cuddling: Spending time playing, talking and making frequent eye contact with your baby helps create a strong emotional bond, which gives them security in the face of situations they may experience.
Treating stress in babies
In most cases, it is not necessary to see a specialist to treat childhood stress, although there are exceptions. The main techniques to address this situation include:
- Quality time with parents: If the baby feels that his caregivers are present and attentive, this will generate calm in stressful situations.
- Provide a relaxing environment: Keeping your home calm, with soft lighting and avoiding loud noises is essential to helping your baby feel safe.
- Relaxation techniques: Some techniques such as massage or gentle stretching exercises can help calm a baby who has been feeling tense.
- Consult a pediatrician if necessary: If after implementing the most basic suggestions the baby continues to show signs of stress, it is advisable to consult a pediatrician.
In more serious situations, a pediatrician may recommend the intervention of a specialist or child therapists trained to work with infants and children who have severe symptoms of stress.
Finally, it is important to note that a loving environment y affective during infancy is crucial for the healthy emotional and physical development of babies. Being attentive to their needs and working to create a safe environment will keep stress levels under control, thus promoting the well-being of the baby.