The side effects of the ongoing health crisis and the measures taken to help curb the spread of the illness involve more than joblessness and loss of business. It’s also led to spikes in mental health issues, even among children.
The lockdowns that prevent kids from participating in in-person schooling, extracurricular activities, and sporting events have placed a lot of pressure on the delicate mental status of our nation’s children and young adults.
There is mounting evidence to suggest that young people are suffering mentally and emotionally as a result of the measures brought about due to the pandemic. And some may be more vulnerable to heightened anxiety than others.
Could your child be at risk for more pronounced anxiety during this health crisis? If so, what can be done to prevent or alleviate it?
Signs of Elevated Anxiety in Children
As a parent, it’s crucial that you stay vigilant and look out for any signs that your child may be experiencing some level of anxiety. This is especially helpful during these trying times. Signs of potential distress could include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Increased nightmares
- Jumpiness
- Emotional numbness
- Change in eating habits
- Fear of being alone
If you notice any of these signs, assess their level of severity and keep notes on how long the behavior persists. If your child experiences these symptoms for a month or more, it may be time to call a professional to get help. There are many treatments available for children and teenagers to help them manage their anxiety.
What Can a Parent Do?
You should always consider seeking the help of a mental health expert to help your child manage anxiety. But there are also some things you can do to help, including the following:
- Encourage them to talk to you or anyone else they trust
- Reassure them that they are not alone and that you’ll do whatever you can to help
- Answer all their questions honestly
- Tell them that it’s okay for them to express their feelings
- Try to speak in a positive manner around them
- Try to maintain a regular daily routine
At USHealthShare, we care about the physical and spiritual health of our members as well as their mental health. Given the turmoil we’re all facing these days as a result of the ongoing health crisis, mental health has emerged at the forefront of overall health, particularly among children.If you’re looking for an option, other than health insurance, to help cover the cost of your medical expenses, Christian health sharing ministries may have the right plans for you. Get in touch with USHealthShare to discuss your options and determine which program best fits your needs and budget. Then, take the next step to share the health.
