Pandemic, a blow to children's psychosocial development
Manav Mander
Tribune News Service
Ludhiana, July 8
Covid Pandemic, consequent lockdowns, no schools or outdoor games for over a year-and-a-half has given severe blow to the psychological development of the kids. An increase in anxiety and depressive symptoms has been seen in kids too.
During this time parents need to be patient with their children and play an important role in keeping them healthy, both physically and mentally. Parents should encourage their kids to let them know if they are not feeling well or if they are feeling stressed about the virus so that they can be of help.
Dr. Manu Sharma, consultant- pediatrics and neonatology consultant at Max Hospital said, “The children are also deprived of outdoor physical activities and playtime; this lack of exercise is leading to health issues such as obesity and future risk of metabolic syndrome. A peculiar rise in screen time and addiction to the internet has also been also noticed in children. When this is coupled with inadequate parental surveillance it exposes the child to an ocean of content that can have positive as well as negative long-lasting impact”.
Maintaining mental health
- Provide assurance whenever needed.
Manage your child’s anxiety.
Engage them in outdoor activities.
Keep them in contact with their friends.
Make a routine of learning at home.
Give them clear information.
Stick to a routine.
In an attempt to stay connected with their peers children spend a lot of time on social media. This, in particular, is responsible for increased incidences of cyber-bullying. The reports directly relate this to increased anxiety, stress, low self-esteem, and even suicidal tendencies in children, he added.
City-based clinical psychologist, Dr Suresh Khanna said that isolation and lockdown period had been specially challenging for kids. “Being deprived of their friends, school mates and healthy school environment has led to drastic behavioral changes in kids”, he said.
“Aggression and depression are on the rise in children, especially in teens. The key signs observed are changes in eating and sleep patterns. Parents need to be watchful,” he said.
