Reactions to watch out for and tips to cope
COVID-19, a global pandemic, is a highly infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered strain of the corona virus. COVID-19 was unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. As we speak, the virus has globally infected 4.2 m people and resulted in almost 300,000 deaths (and counting). Almost one-third of the global population is under some form of a lock-down. Apart from the unprecedented and catastrophic economic and physiological impact, the outbreak has resulted in severe emotional and psychological impact across all ages.
While, medically, children and adolescents may appear to be at a lesser risk, the pandemic has significantly disrupted their lives in other ways. Lock-down has resulted in social distancing, interruption of a typical school routine, lack of physical activity that can be especially challenging for adolescents and teenagers leading to stress, anxiety, and loneliness. Listed below are typical reactions:
1. Loss of interest in a day- to- day activities
2. A feeling of restlessness, anger, agitation, and feeling of uncertainty
3. Feeling of depression, anxiety, stress, frustration, and fear of the unknown
4. FOMO
5. Worry about going out, remaining extra cautious and fear of contracting germs
6. Overuse of screens
7. Lack of movement/exercise in the house due to home-based learning and homework
8. Constant irritation, confusion, boredom, sadness, and hopelessness
9. Changes in eating habits and comprised immune functioning.
Some of the strategies will help adolescents and teenagers cope up during this pandemic:
1. Set a flexible but consistent daily routine
2. Focus on physical and mental wellness - like yoga, stretching, meditation, etc.
3. Use screens for home-based learning and for connecting with friends rather than just mindless scrolling. Blink often while using screens
4. Take a break and engage in art, music, and dance activities to lighten up the mood
5. Eat a balanced diet and avoid junk food and sugary drinks
6. Pick up a new skill or hobby
7. Connect with friends and family
8. Maintain good hygiene
Parents should also be mindful of lock-down and help their children cope during this difficult time. They must recognize and acknowledge if their child(ren) is showing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression and seek out help. Speak to them on an ongoing basis, discuss their fears, anxieties, mood swings, and teach them coping strategies. Be calm and compassionate and maintain a peaceful home environment.
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