As we approach Mental Health Awareness Week, which runs from 9 to 15 May 2022, the question of how the pandemic has impacted children’s mental health is an important subject to broach.
The theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week is loneliness, which is extremely relevant as children have experienced significant decreases in social interactions, brought on by lockdowns and school closures.
Unfortunately, this has resulted in a rise of young people suffering from ill mental health, with 83 per cent of young people commenting that the pandemic worsened their mental health (according to YoungMinds).
In fact, according to a survey by YoungMinds, most respondents reported feelings of loneliness and isolation during lockdowns.
What steps can be taken to combat this?
Despite the ending of coronavirus measures and lockdowns across the UK, children may still be feeling the effects of loneliness and poor mental health.
To combat this and make a positive impact on young people’s mental health, it is important to address the issues and encourage an open conversation.
Talking openly with your child about mental health can help to spot and take action to support them as soon as possible.
Also, as children often mimic the behaviours of adults around them, it is important for the parent or carer to demonstrate healthy behaviours, such as practising self-care.
If you are worried about your child’s mental health, it is important to seek professional help.
