Third of children feel more anxious than before

LOCKDOWN has left a third of children feeling more anxious and stressed, government experts have warned.

A survey by Public Health England (PHE) also found that four in 10 children have become more lonely than they were before March.

The agency has launched a campaign urging children to look out for signs of distress in each other, laying out new tips for parents as the possibilities of further lockdowns loom.

Based on a Yougov survey of 2,559 parents who have children aged five to 18, the results found parents were more concerned about the mental well-being of their children than any other issue.

One in four parents said they did not know how to go about improving their child’s mental health.

Among the advice published by PHE is the importance of establishing a routine and encouraging children to indulge

‘It is vital we continue to do all we can to protect young people and prevent long-term effects’

in their hobbies and interests.

Nadine Dorries, the minister for mental health, said: “The effects of the pandemic on children and young people’s mental health have been challenging and it is vital we continue to do all we can to protect them and prevent long-term effects.

“Young people should feel encouraged to speak up, look out for each other, and ask for help. This campaign and these resources are a great way to access support and help parents to understand steps they can take to care even more for their children’s mental health and well-being.”

Prof Yvonne Doyle, the medical director and director of health protectionate PHE, said: “Being there to listen and encouraging them to explain how they feel can make a real difference to how children and young people cope with life’s challenges. It can also help them develop effective skills to cope with their emotions.”

The Every Mind Matters website encourages parents to complete a personal “Mind Plan”, which is a free interactive tool offering adults tailored mental well-being advice.