COVID-19 Brings Mental Health Concerns as Kids Head Back to School

As children head back to school, either in-person or online, parents and health experts are facing new questions about young people’s mental health in the pandemic.

Funda Bachini, MD, assistant program director of the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, said the COVID-19 pandemic has created new stresses for children. She offered advice on how to deal with some common questions.

Parents are deciding whether to send their children back to school in-person. How should they consider the effect their choice might have on their child’s development?

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Honestly, it depends on your child. Although in the minority, there are some children who thrive in this new online education environment. If parents are available and have the resources to teach them at their own pace, kids may be learning more than they would have in traditional school. There may also be benefit for some kids with the removal of the social stressors associated with school.

Unfortunately, this is not what we usually see. Often, parents are well intentioned and trying their best, but lack the time, patience and experience to teach their kids. Kids are often left to try to navigate the day largely on their own, hampering their academic development. They also miss out on all the social development that occurs at school – learning how to make friends, handle disagreements, prioritize responsibilities, and manage complex social interactions.

Should you talk to your child about the pandemic and what’s going on in the world right now?

Absolutely, yes. Bring it up. I think as parents, we often think that if our child isn’t bringing it up, then it must not be an issue. Kids notice everything, and the major changes that accompanied COVID-19 are impossible to miss. I would bring it up when kids are calm in a familiar setting. For elementary school students, this may be bedtime. Something like ‘Hey, I know things look so different than any of us thought this year. What do you think about that?’ is a good starter. For older kids, you could talk to them over a meal or sitting on the couch together. Let them know that you know it’s a different experience and ask directly if they have any questions or concerns. It doesn’t need to be a long conversation, but letting them know that you are here when they are ready and then periodically checking in is a good idea.

Will virtual learning and limited interaction with the outside world impact child development?

It is and it will. It doesn’t mean that it always will have a negative impact. Again, a lot depends on your child, their supports and their resilience. Our kids are already living in a much different social environment than we did. Much of their conversations already take place over text and social media. They may be better equipped to handle this kind of change. Little kids can learn a lot of their relevant social skills from social stories and interactions with family. Teenagers, whose development revolves around creating relationships outside of their immediate family and navigating social situations, may have more difficulty.

How can parents help their children cope with feelings of loss or depression from missed activities? 

First, acknowledge it and validate how they feel. Empower them to come up with alternatives not to replace, but to celebrate or connect in a different way. Being able to create ways for themselves and their peers to acknowledge these losses and create alternatives can be very rewarding and increase resilience.

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What are the warning signs of a child struggling with mental health that a parent should look out for?

First, kids with underlying mental illness are at an increased risk for decompensation – deteriorating mental health that can be exacerbated by an inability to effectively cope with stress. If your child begins to isolate, have consistent difficulty with sleep, has intrusive thoughts/worries, becomes fearful of leaving the house or being away from their caregivers, I would seek help from your pediatrician, family doctor or psychiatrist.

Virtual learning and limited interactions with the outside world can take a toll on mental health. What activities would help mitigate negative effects? 

Spending time together is the most important. While it is great for you and your child’s mental health to exercise, meditate or spend time outdoors, any time you can spend together is positive. You can have movie nights, make a meal or play games. That being said, it is also important to remember to take care of ourselves as well. A little extra screen time may be unavoidable, and as long as the content is appropriate, that’s okay, too. We all need to decompress.

Is it safe to see your psychologist or psychiatrist right now?

It is safe. At Phoenix Children’s Hospital, we are wearing masks and goggles, taking daily temperatures, and we are monitoring any potential symptoms. As always, we are continuing hand hygiene and have increased cleanings. While it may be beneficial to have your initial evaluation in-person, especially if you think your child may have difficulty staying online for an hour intake, telehealth visits can also provide a thorough evaluation.

How do we raise children to handle unexpected situations like the pandemic and develop strong coping skills?

The best thing you can do for your children is be there for them. Children develop resilience as they encounter and overcome challenges and stress with the support of a trusted, stable and consistent adult. Model for them that this is difficult, but that you will all get through it together. Be there for them when they are disappointed or upset, and support them as we all move forward.