Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought several changes in the world, with one of the most significant ones being the impact on mental health. With social distancing measures and schools closing, young people, in particular, have had to adjust to new ways of learning, communicating, and socializing, leading to heightened stress and anxiety levels. In this article, we will explore the ways in which the pandemic is affecting the mental health of youths and offer some strategies to cope with these challenges going forward.
The Impact of the Pandemic on Youth Mental Health
The pandemic has significantly impacted the mental health and well-being of young people worldwide. Reports reveal that pandemic-associated fears, anxiety, and depression symptoms are prevalent among adolescents and young adults, regardless of demographic, national, or cultural background. Also, the heightened levels of isolation and loneliness that accompany enforced social distancing and quarantine measures have significantly impacted young people’s mental health, causing feelings of dislocation, hopelessness, and disconnection.
The pandemic has disrupted daily routines considerably, leading to elevated stress levels in young people. With the closure of schools and other vital community resources, young people have lost critical mental health support from teachers and other school professionals. Although some schools have shifted to virtual learning, many students find this arrangement challenging to adapt to, leading to poor performance and a further decline in mental health. Furthermore, there have been reports of an increase in domestic violence and abuse during the pandemic. Young people may bear witness to or be the victims of abuse, thus exacerbating their mental health issues.
Strategies to Cope Post COVID
Addressing the root causes of youth mental health challenges requires a holistic approach that considers the unique challenges currently facing young people. Here are some strategies that could help young people cope with the mental health challenges they are facing.
Stay Connected
Encouraging young people to keep in touch with friends and family can help reduce stress and feelings of isolation. Whether online or in person, video chats, phone calls, and social media interactions can help maintain connections and support systems amidst the pandemic.
Practice Self-Care
Engaging in activities that promote relaxation and self-care can help alleviate stress and anxiety in young people. Regular exercise, sleep, healthy eating, mindfulness, and meditation can help improve physical and mental health.
Seek Professional Help
Young people who feel overwhelmed with mental health challenges can benefit from talking to professional mental health providers who can provide guidance and support. Several telehealth platforms provide remote counseling services that young people can access from the comfort of their homes.
Stay Informed But Don’t Obsess Over the News
As COVID-19 news continues to dominate the media, it is essential to stay informed about developments related to the pandemic. However, young people should avoid obsessing over negative news, which can exacerbate anxiety and stress levels.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the pandemic has significantly impacted youth mental health, and young people, just like adults, need intentional, sustained support. Encouraging them to stay connected, practice self-care, seek professional help, and remain informed while avoiding an unhealthy preoccupation with the news can go a long way in improving their well-being. Taking care of our minds and the minds of our young people will be critical to recovering and moving forward post-COVID.
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