Mental health is often discussed in relation to adults and our busy schedules. But what about children? Children are highly sensitive to mental health issues depending on their specific circumstances. With the current global pandemic engulfing our society and media, children of all ages are likely asking some questions.

The coronavirus pandemic has resulted in many changes to our daily lives. For a child, this can be confusing and extremely terrifying. Many schools are closed and are forced to be conducted online through virtual learning. Children’s parents might also be working from home. These changes can greatly disturb a child’s routine, which can also increase their anxiety. A study conducted in China found that after just one month of isolation 22.6% of children reported symptoms of depression and 18.9% reported symptoms of anxiety. Since most of the country has been locked down (at least partially) for more than a month, these numbers are likely to be much higher.

In addition to increased depression and anxiety, children might also be extremely fearful of the virus itself. They can potentially be afraid for themselves getting the virus and in addition to their loved ones. Depending on a child’s age and maturity level, they can also be fearful of the state of our world, wondering if it will ever go back to normal. This is something that nearly every human on earth capable of having these thoughts is thinking about during this time. It’s normal to feel this way in a time of such unbearable uncertainty. There are a few things that experts recommend in efforts to alleviate some of this fear, depression, and anxiety.

The Minnesota Department of Health has offered some helpful resources for parents. They recommend talking to your children about the virus and explaining to them the facts that we currently know. We can explain to children that they can help others by washing our hands frequently, wearing a mask, and staying home. By explaining to children why they are staying home, it can help them to feel like they have a little more control of their situation. This can help decrease anxiety and even provide some hope for the future. As far as alleviating feelings of depression, establishing some sort of routine can be extremely helpful. It may be challenging to come up with many activities for your child to do at home, but with some creativity and research, it is certainly possible. If weather permits, you can also try having scheduled time outdoors each day. Spending time in nature (and sunlight) is naturally proven to alleviate symptoms of depression.

Being a parent is always a tough job, but during such a stressful time, it can be especially challenging. It’s important to make sure you are taking care of yourself also. Children are very conscious of the world around them and they will pick up if you’re extremely stressed out also. By taking care of yourself, you are taking care of them, which is really the ultimate goal anyway. Be gentle with yourself and your children, we’re all navigating a time of uncertainty. Shower them with tender loving care (TLC). COvid19 has not changed the fact that they are children and need lots of TLC. Having the hope of better days and spreading this hope to your children is the most important thing we can do.

Resources:

https://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/health-emergencies/coronavirus-covid-19/news/news/2020/3/mental-health-and-psychological-resilience-during-the-covid-19-pandemic#:~:text=Children%20are%20likely%20to%20be,mental%20well%2Dbeing.

https://time.com/5870478/children-mental-health-coronavirus/

https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/mentalhealth/children