As we all learn to live with Covid-19, 2022 has started to promise a return, at least in part, to pre-pandemic normality. This new year looks to bring back some version of the higher paced, full days we once knew all too well, both for adults and our children. Whilst many of us may be desperate to get rid of the restrictions that have curtailed our way of life for nearly two years, we have to be mindful of the ‘after shocks’ of the pandemic and the impact on the mental health of our youngsters and the challenges it brings for their families.
Living in exceptional times has forced all of us to adapt and evolve. This experience has also brought with it the reflexive capacity that we had to find the good, in sometimes dire situations, in order to push forward. It is important to acknowledge the positive experiences that shifted our lives in such profound ways over the last two years. For the first time since the industrial revolution, many people returned to the home. These homes became all encompassing hubs, where we worked, learned, ate, played, connected, argued and even mourned. What this experience did offer many families was, a once in a generation opportunity to spend more time at home with their children, spouses, neighbours and their pets. People were able to connect, grow and support each other in ways we never needed to before in recent times. As much as lockdown and restrictions forced the country to grind to a halt, it also forced us as people to slow down and take a breath.
Whilst we recognise positives, we must acknowledge the negative impact this has had on the mental health of our children and young people. It is well known that consistency and routine are key to children’s emotional development and wellbeing.
They had to cope with isolation from friends and peers, disrupted schooling, examinations cancelled or postponed, social distancing and other restrictions. They will have not only worried about the wellbeing of their family and friends, but also have serious concerns about their own futures and prospects. Many would have had parents who worked for the NHS; others have seen their parents struggle financially or emotionally. They may have experienced bereavement and witnessed serious illness among their loved ones, unlike before.
The mental health impact of the pandemic was evident from the early lockdown stages in 2020, but the extent is becoming increasingly clear. A considerable proportion of mental health problems experienced by adults originate from childhood and early life experiences. Thus, it is logical to anticipate longer-term complications if we do not support young people now. We can see the immediate impact this experience has had on childhood anxiety, depression, as well as delayed foundational development and their ability to process information.
It is important for adults to understand that children often do not have the verbal capacity or insight to tell us when they are experiencing these difficulties. Rather, we see these worries expressed through changes in their behaviour.
Children and young people do not always articulate that they are experiencing difficulties or have mental health problems. These difficulties can affect anyone, regardless of demographic, family background and economic status. It is important for parents and caregivers to be familiar with warning signs and offer support in a swift and effective manner. Often early signs of mental health difficulties start showing as changes in behaviour. This could include changes in sleeping patterns, appetite, becoming overly clingy or emotionally volatile, withdrawing from friends and family or even losing interest in previously enjoyed activities.. If caregivers develop concerns regarding a young person’s mental wellbeing, the best approach is always to be present, supportive and understanding of what he or she is experiencing. Not all difficulties need the intervention of a professional, and a supportive parent or caregiver will be instrumental and capable of supporting a child through a rough patch. This is primarily done by trying to stay out of a ‘fixing’ mode, instead simply offering the child the space to share their experience and helping them sit with difficult feelings.
With this said, it is equally important for caregivers to know when to seek out help and to know what type of help is available. If a young person is simply not coping, even with the emotional support of the caregiver, it is always useful to mobilise the support network around the child. Speak to their school, GP or other important stakeholders in their lives. There is also a wealth of professional support available in this country and especially in London. This includes, but is not limited to, psychologists, psychiatrists, counsellors, occupational therapists and speech and language therapists.
Very often, the problems young people experience is multifaceted, and thus, it is also beneficial to opt for a multidisciplinary input.
Sterling Practice is an example of an independent organisation that offers an expert multidisciplinary therapy service for children and young people. We are able to assist families in obtaining a holistic view of their child’s needs, as well as offer important therapeutic solutions. An approach like this incorporates a foundational developmental understanding into treatments that help children cope with the demands of day-to-day living. Often it is these underlying attributes, like sensory integration or neurodevelopmental deficits, which are the silent agents that can offer the most significant functional improvements. Addressing these foundational needs will also provide a secure base and support cognitive development.
Sterling Practice has clinics in Dulwich, Putney and Richmond.
www.sterlingpractice.co.uk or call for initial complimentary consultation on 020 8670 6484