When it comes to the mental health of children, there are a wide range of feelings that we could expect them to feel but the prominent ones are fear, isolation and anxiety. The COVID-19 pandemic has left a lot of children feeling lost with their lives. Those who are in school have been learning remotely, or in an environment that does not feel familiar. Children younger than school-age have been missing playdates and important social events that may have them feeling a little lost when it comes to interacting with other people.

According to the United Nations, new research was done that showed that more than 330 million children and youth have been stuck at home for at least 9 months, which seems like a lifetime to a young child. This has left them suffering with negative thoughts and feelings.

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UNICEF has been speaking out on the mental health of children, and James Elder pointed out that this pandemic needs to create change. He is calling one very country to pay close attention to how they come out of this pandemic. They need to focus on the mental health of children and youth and give it the proper attention that it needs.

There is also concern for children who are living in unstable and, possibly, abusive homes. Children have been stranded at home in an environment that is not safe for them.

UNICEF has also stated that they will support governments and help them prioritize services for children when the pandemic is over. They also acknowledge that mental health in youth was always a concern, but the pandemic is highlighting the urgency needed for this population.

Children who have been in lockdown and isolation are feeling afraid of the world, they are lonely and isolated due to not being able to see friends, family or peers.

Programs in communities and schools would be beneficial for children, and support for vulnerable families is essential. They are hoping that some parental programs can be in place to help families cope with the world once the pandemic is lifted.

Children are in the most critical point of their lives for development, and with the pandemic happening, work needs to be done to make sure that the lasting effects of this pandemic are as minimal as possible.

While doctors and pediatricians have told parents that children are resilient and will pull through, that doesn’t stop a mom from worrying.

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Sources: United Nations, UNICEF