back to LearnIn this engaging webinar, Dr. Jodie Lowinger – Gotcha4Life Advisor, Clinical Psychologist, best-selling author, and Founder/CEO of The Anxiety Clinic – joins Gotcha4Life’s CEO, Belinda Elworthy, to share practical strategies that help parents support their children in building mental fitness and managing anxiety more effectively. In a world full of uncertainty, Dr. Lowinger provides practical tools and heartfelt advice as a mental health professional and a parent to support and empower families.
Feelings of anxiety are a natural part of life, rooted in our survival instinct to protect us from danger. However, in a world that is increasingly uncertain, with growing social pressures, fears of being judged, being separated from parents and fears of the unknown – growing numbers of children and young people are feeling overwhelmed. In this thought-provoking chat, Dr. Jodie shares a number of effective tools to help parents support their children to build confidence in their ability to face challenges and manage feelings of anxiety.
Dr. Lowinger explains that while anxiety is normal, it can become problematic when left unchecked, leading to avoidance behaviours and emotional distress. By focussing on building connection and open communication, parents can create an environment where children feel heard and supported. The webinar also highlights the importance of validating children’s emotions (and your own!), focusing on strengths, and modelling self-care. When we employ these strategies, they do more than reduce anxiety, they help parents and children to build lifelong mental fitness skills.
Here are our top 3 takeaways for parents from the webinar:
1. Connection is the foundation of mental fitness and resilience.
Children need to know they are loved unconditionally, even when they might seem to be pushing you away. By creating moment of connection (bedtime chats, an extra squeeze or rub on the back, shared activities), parents build a safe space where children feel secure enough to express their worries.
2. Validate emotions first, solve later.
When a child is overwhelmed, logic won’t land. Dr. Lowinger stresses the importance of first validating your child’s emotions, supporting them to calm down and shift from their emotional brain to their rational brain before exploring solutions.
3. Model mental fitness yourself.
Children mirror what they see. Parents who model self-care, emotional regulation and self-compassion, teach their children powerful tools to manage feelings of anxiety by example. Remember: managing your own wellbeing is critical for your child’s emotional adaptability.
Keep showing up: Progress over perfection in parenting
One final message that stood out during this chat was that parenting isn’t about getting it right every day – no one does! Some days will feel smooth, and others will be a struggle, and that’s completely normal. What matters is that you keep showing up, keep listening, and keep reinforcing your child’s ability to handle the challenges they are worried about. However, if your child’s anxiety is persistent or interfering with their daily life, reaching out to a professional like Dr. Jodie early can provide the guidance and support you need to help them (and you) navigate this journey with confidence.
Dr. Jodie Lowinger is a clinical psychologist, high-performance coach, and the founder of The Anxiety Clinic. She is renowned for her expertise in anxiety management, resilience-building, and leadership development, working with individuals and organisations to enhance mental wellbeing and performance. Dr. Lowinder is also an author and sought after speaker, empowering people to overcome challenges and thrive. Learn more at www.drjodie.com.au
Please note: This resource has been developed in collaboration with Dr. Jodie Lowinger and is intended for general information purposes only. It’s not a substitute for professional advice. Gotcha4Life does not offer counselling or crisis support.
If you have concerns about your child’s wellbeing, please speak with your GP or a qualified health professional. You can also explore a range of free, trusted supports and information at gotcha4life.org/help-resources
For direct support, Kids Helpline offers free, confidential counselling for young people aged 5 to 25. Call 1800 55 1800 or visit kidshelpline.com.au
