Mental health experts are concerned about the psychological wellbeing of students post-pandemic. Students are vulnerable to chances of increased depression, anxiety and suicidal tendecies, due to the disruption of routines, decreased support systems, fear of infection, cancellation of graduation gatherings and academic uncertainty. Certain students are in bereavement due to the death of loved ones and some face the financial backlash of parental unemployment.
Studies report that 20% of college students have experienced a general decline in their mental health. Lingering challenges that students faced is the loneliness of social isolation and studying without the company of friends, this has led to demotivation and stress among many students.
According to UNESCO, “Risk factors for violence, abuse and neglect are reportedly on the rise for children living under restricted movement and socio-economic decline. Girls and women are at increased risk of sexual and gender-based violence … This is likely to affect children the worst and their mental health as well.” At these times it is vital to help children learn the skills of stress management, self-soothing and healthy coping skills. Caretakers and Teachers need to address the psychological wellbeing and emotional needs of children. Three ways you can promote resilience in your children are mentioned below:
1) Building a trusting relationship with the child
Talk to the children at their level by sitting on your knees, give them your undivided attention, and offer to play with them. For preteens engage in a board/online game while conversing. For teens indicate your availability if they need your support at any point, however you don’t have to pressure them to confide in you. Avoid giving solutions or giving advice and just be willing to listen empathetically. Convey to the child that you care about them in a warm and friendly tone. These steps will help you build a trusting relationship which is often a catalyst for emotional wellbeing
2) Create a positive atmosphere of fun and support
It does no good for children to sit idle, since they are at a stage where their energies need to be channeled effectively. Research about creative activities for them to engage in. Younger children thrive on structured play, so involve them in helping out with house work by converting it into fun activity. Parents can get creative with their preschooler and incorporate play into everyday activities and chores. (For example, use a “Clean up” song or “Simon says” activity when picking up toys or folding laundry) For older children, assign a challenging task which requires intellectual stimulation such as board game or a craft activity. Encourage them to develop a hobby of their personal interest and promote creative self-expression (For example, learning an instrument online or completing a thousand piece jigsaw puzzle)
3) Build resilience with awareness and skills
Educators and Parents need to collaborate in preparing a routine for students to follow, where they have the opportunity to plug into small online groups for meaningful interaction and avoiding social media usage if possible; since research indicate that active connections can foster a sense of belonging. If parents and educators would attend webinars or educate themselves on coping skills for children, this will enable students to manage stress, self-soothing, mindfulness and emotional regulation.
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