Children’s Mental Health Amid The Pandemic
The coronavirus continues to plague the world and the new Omicron mutation is currently at the center of research.
We are closing two years in the middle of a pandemic and undoubtedly the coronavirus has an impact on the mental and not only the health of children of all ages. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently published guidelines for caring for children’s emotional needs during this time, to help parents and their children manage the pandemic.
According to experts, 1 in 4 children states that they experience some kind of depression and 1 in 5 stress and anxiety. These guidelines are also aimed at pediatricians, who according to the AAP (American Academy of Pediatricians) are a source of information for parents and possibly the people who will call first in case of emergency.
What do the experts suggest?
According to the experts, it is important to understand that children of different ages experience the pandemic differently. The AAP also advises pediatricians to look out for any symptoms of depression or stress in children and their families and to give the necessary importance to their emotional state. This may include changes in behavior or mood.
In addition, experts advise paying attention to the socio-economic changes that can be experienced by the family and therefore the children. For example, lack of food and malnutrition hurt the physical and mental health of children. Finally, children need to develop healthy habits such as limiting screen exposure, getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising.
The last but perhaps most important piece of advice stems from your attitude towards what all of humanity has been living through all this time. When you as a parent are panicked by this situation, be sure that your children will identify with you.
Do not expect calmness from a child who sees its parent out of control. The cooler and more flexible you are, the more you pass the message to your children that “it is a difficulty that will just disappear one day”.
Never forget that your children are the mirror of your behavior and attitude towards life. Become the hero they will want to emulate on all levels. This is a very good opportunity!
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