FOR many adults, the news and the state of global politics will feel overwhelming at the moment. But imagine you're a child who has spent the last two years trying to cope with everyday anxieties that come with growing up as well as the pressures and concerns of living through a global pandemic.

Add the non-stop news coverage of the Russian invasion of Ukraine and images of bombed towns, and it's understandable that children might feel particularly anxious as fears of war are brought to the forefront of their minds for the first time in their lives.

In the last couple of weeks, our Childline counsellors have spoken to a number of young people who have told us they're worried that the invasion could escalate into a wider conflict, leading to attacks on British countries or the use of nuclear weapons. We've also spoken to children who have family or friends living in the conflict zone, and others who had found the courage to speak to parents or teachers about their worries but felt they hadn't been taken seriously. A 13-year-old boy told counsellors he feared "there might be a third world war". He said: "My parents told me to 'calm down' and that we'll get help if war breaks out but I'm still worried."

A 16-year-old girl told Childline: "I'm feeling really anxious over current world events. I tried to talk to my mum but she said I was being silly. I've been Googling about it and the US were talking about taking a violent approach. I felt like every nerve in my body jumped at once."

If your child is worried about the crisis in Ukraine, here are a few ideas to help support them: Firstly, reassure them it's normal to feel scared, confused, or like there is little control over international events.

Get the facts from trusted sources - Newsround and First News are great outlets for children and young people, and far more objective and trustworthy than 'doomscrolling' through social media.Remind them to take a break from the news or social media and do something relaxing, away from breaking news and notifications. If they know someone is worried about loved ones in Ukraine, suggest they check in on them, offer to listen or talk if they need it, or ask if there's anything they can do to help.

Most importantly, let them know they can speak to you or a trusted adult about their concerns, or safely and anonymously with peers on the moderated Childline message boards. Our counsellors are available around the clock on 0800 1111 and at childline.org.uk. Adults can find support by emailing help@nspcc.org.uk