SUPPORT YOUR CHILD’S EMOTIONAL WELLBEING
Many parents will have read worrying stories about the long-lasting mental health impact of lockdown. Emma advises how to spot potential problems and help children work through them
Throughout lockdown, we have seen many children aged between four and ten feeling unhappy and worried. Older children appear to have fared better – perhaps because connecting online has meant they aren’t so isolated. Also, many teens who struggle emotionally associate negative feelings with school, so with this removed, anxieties have reduced. No matter how your child seems to you, it is crucial to talk regularly.
WALK AND TALK
It may seem normal for your teen to spend hours in their bedroom, and to be overly emotional about minor issues, but these behaviours can also be symptoms of anxiety and depression. If they seem more emotional or withdrawn, suggest going for a walk together, as side-by-side communication is easier for teens because they feel less exposed. Ask them how they have found the last few months, and encourage them to discuss their hopes and fears for the coming months. If they open up about any struggles, reassure them that together you can face anything, and remind them that if things fail to settle down for them emotionally, together you can look at support options, such as Kooth.com, YoungMinds, or CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services).
LOOK FOR SIGNS
Younger children often give clear signs they are struggling. This can be regressive behaviours such as bed-wetting, or out-of-character tantrums. Sleep disturbance can also be a feature. It isn’t always easy for kids to describe how they feel, so download a feeling chart that they can use to pinpoint the emotion they are experiencing. Make a “worry jar”, into which they place notes about things that bother them, then for 15 minutes a day, sit and talk them through together. Every time a worry is resolved, throw it away. Breathing exercises are hugely helpful for children of all ages. Stream free videos teaching diaphragmatic breathing online.
GET MORE HELP
Finally, remember that children tend to be highly resilient and adaptable, and their anxieties should settle as we return to a more normal life. If they are still struggling, chat to your GP about different support opportunities.