CHILDREN WHO NEED MORE SUPPORT DURING COVID-19

The stress, fear, grief and uncertainty created by the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic can wear anyone down, but children and teens may have an especially tough time coping emotionally and need more support.

As a parent, you will usually spot any changes in your child’s usual behaviour. Life during this pandemic however means that it’s necessary to check in with our children more often and specifically watch and listen for any signs they are struggling. Don’t forget that your doctor or clinic is on hand to help.

Adolescents and older teenagers may try to hide their struggles because of fear, shame, or a sense of responsibility to avoid burdening others. Younger children may not know how to talk about these feelings but may show changes in their behavior or development. Make it easy for your child to talk about how they are feeling. Feeling depressed, anxious, or angry may be signs they could benefit from more support during this difficult time.

RECOGNISING SIGNS OF STRESS IN YOUR CHILD

Signs of stress and mental health challenges are not the same for every child or teen, but there are some common symptoms. Infants, toddlers and young children may show backward progress in skills and developmental milestones. They may also have increased problems with the behaviours detailed below.

Younger children:

Fussiness and irritability, startling and crying more easily, and more difficult to console

Falling asleep and waking up more during the night

Feeding issues such as frantic nippling, more reflux, constipation or loose stools, or new complaints of stomach pain

Separation anxiety, seeming more clingy, withdrawn, or hesitant to explore

Hitting, frustration, biting and more frequent or intense tantrums

Bedwetting after they’re potty trained

Conflict and aggression or themes like illness or death during play.

Older children and adolescents: