The kids are NOT alright: why children need more support as schools play hide & seek

Variants may come and go but it doesn’t seem like the pandemic’s toll on children’s mental health will be resolved anytime soon.

The U.S. CDC reported that around 55 per cent more children visited the hospital for mental health-related emergencies in 2020, compared to 2019.

With schools closed, then reopened and then closed again, school-going children have been forced to adjust to new realities every day without much understanding of what’s happening around them.

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Like the rest of us, kids were cut off from social networks, and even the Internet in many cases, leaving young people with no opportunities to connect with friends, teachers, coaches, and other people outside their homes.

A 2021 UNICEF report said that 1 in 7 young adults in India reported often feeling depressed or having little interest in doing things. What’s worse, only 41 per cent of Indian youth thinks it’s good to seek support for mental illnesses compared to the global average of 83 per cent.

The pandemic is only going to exacerbate the prevalence of mental health problems. The top paediatrician’s body in the U.S. has even declared this situation a national emergency.

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Here are some tips for parents, caretakers and other adults to help kids better cope with the new world order:

• First and foremost, adults should take care of their own mental health. If you can manage your emotions and stay calm, you’ll be in a much better shape to provide support.
• Things are weird so it's important to create an open space for children to voice their concerns. Engage in conversations and validate their fears and feelings before they hit crisis mode.
• In an uncertain world, a little bit of structure and routine can be great. Work together to create a schedule and be consistent to build some sense of control.
• Lastly, know when to seek additional help. If you know a child is struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out to a professional.

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