Mental Health During Covid-19

Honestly, friends, how have you been since our new normal due to Covid-19? How are your children?

Many children and teens have had an especially tough time dealing with the isolation that accompanied the pandemic. They've been separated from friends, family, and society for almost a year.

Social distancing has been necessary, but the opposite of what kids need. Our lives have been far more tech-driven to try to combat this--from virtual school to Zoom visits with extended family.

Guess what? I'm so proud of you! You've persevered through it all and learned to navigate through websites and apps. It hasn't been easy, but you've made the best of it. And learning lessons without a teacher by your side, whew, I can't even imagine.

But some of our children are suffering silently.

According to Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital, from April through November of 2020 there was a 35% increase in children who needed mental health assistance compared to 2019 and an uptick in suicide attempts as well.

Look for changes in behavior. Encourage your children to talk about whatever they're feeling. You must set the tone for your household. If you're walking in fear, uncertainty, or anxiety, this rubs off on your children. No matter how you're feeling, try to remain as positive as possible.

Friends, this has been a tough time for all, but we can get through this.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health matters, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 to connect with a trained counselor or visit the NSPL site.

Remember, I'm here for you. If you need it, reach out for help.

LB