The pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental health of children across the globe. According to a study published in The Lancet, the pandemic has led to an increase in psychiatric disorders among children and adolescents. The study found that there was a 21% increase in the number of children who needed treatment for mental health issues between 2009 and 2017. This is a major concern, as untreated mental health issues can lead to problems later in life. In this blog post, we will discuss the effects of pandemics on children’s mental health and how parents can help their children cope during this difficult time.
Pandemics can have a significant impact on children’s mental health. One of the main reasons for this is the uncertainty that they bring. Children thrive on routine and predictability, and pandemics throw all of that out of the window. This can lead to anxiety and stress, as children try to make sense of what is happening around them.
Another reason why pandemics can be so damaging to children’s mental health is the isolation that they cause. Children are social creatures, and pandemics can force them to stay indoors for extended periods of time. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and despair.
Finally, pandemics can have a major impact on a child’s sense of safety and security. When the world around them is in chaos, it can be very scary for children. This can lead to nightmares and difficulty sleeping.
If you are a parent of a child who is struggling with their mental health during this pandemic, there are some things that you can do to help. First, it is important to talk to your child about their feelings. This can be a difficult conversation, but it is important to let them know that they are not alone. Second, try to maintain as much of a routine as possible. This will help your child feel safe and secure in an uncertain world. Finally, make sure to spend time with your child and provide them with love and support.
If you are worried about your child’s mental health, please reach out to a mental health professional. Pandemics can be difficult times, but we will get through them together.
Good article.