Mental Health During COVID-19: Signs Your Child May Need More Support

The stress, fear, grief, and uncertainty caused by the COVID-19 pandemic have hit kids and teens hard. Many are struggling emotionally, and it’s been tough for families to help them cope.

One heartbreaking statistic: Over 140,000 kids in the U.S. lost a parent or grandparent caregiver to COVID-19. And the impact hasn’t been felt equally – children from racial and ethnic minority families have been at much higher risk, with some studies showing they were up to 4.5 times more likely to lose a caregiver.

On top of that, families have faced job losses, disruptions to school, and limited access to healthcare and community support. Some have also experienced increased racism and xenophobia, particularly those of Asian descent.

A Surge in Mental Health Crises

Since the start of the pandemic, hospitals have seen a sharp rise in mental health emergencies among kids. Between March and October 2020, ER visits for mental health issues went up 24% for children aged 5-11 and 31% for those aged 12-17. Even more alarming, early 2021 saw a 50% jump in suspected suicide attempts among girls aged 12-17 compared to 2019.

Even with vaccines available, the emotional toll of the pandemic isn’t disappearing overnight. That’s why checking in on your child, looking for signs of struggle, and reaching out for help when needed is important.

How Is Your Child Coping?

Encourage your child to talk about their feelings. Stress, anxiety, anger, and sadness are all normal reactions. Still, it might be time for extra support if these emotions become overwhelming or interfere with daily life, like school, friendships, or hobbies.

Younger children may not be able to express what they’re feeling with words, so that they might show it through changes in behavior. Conversely, teens often try to hide their emotions because they don’t want to burden others.

Signs of Stress in Kids and Teens

Every child reacts differently, but here are some common red flags:

Young Children (Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers)

• Acting younger than they used to (like bedwetting after being potty trained)
• More frequent tantrums, frustration, or aggressive behavior
• Clinginess or fear of being separated from family
• Changes in sleep, like trouble falling asleep or waking up more often
• Physical symptoms like stomach aches, nausea, or digestive issues

Older Kids & Teens

• Mood swings, irritability, or feelings of hopelessness
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• Losing interest in things they used to love (e.g., a music-loving teen suddenly stops playing guitar)
• Sleeping too much or not enough
• Changes in appetite or eating habits
• Trouble concentrating or struggling in school
• Ignoring personal hygiene
• Risky behaviors like drug or alcohol use
• Talking or thinking about death or suicide (more on that below)

How Your Pediatrician Can Help

Now more than ever, regular check-ins with your child’s pediatrician are crucial. They can screen for depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. They may also ask about family stress, including COVID-19 illnesses or losses.

Giving teens time alone with the doctor during appointments is a good idea so they feel comfortable opening up. Many pediatricians now offer telehealth visits, making it easier to check in without a trip to the office.

Dealing With Grief After Losing a Loved One to COVID

Losing a loved one can be devastating, and kids who’ve experienced this type of loss may need extra emotional support. Professional counseling can be a massive help in managing grief and adjusting to life without that special person.

Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health

• Keep the conversation open. Check-in regularly and let them know you’re there to listen.
• Be patient – some kids take longer to open up, and that’s okay.
• Find alternative ways for them to express themselves, like art, music, or journaling.
• Encourage healthy coping strategies like mindfulness, deep breathing, or physical activity.
• Watch for signs they might need professional help.

A Word About Suicide Risk

Suicide risk increases during times of stress, and unfortunately, some kids may be struggling silently. Not everyone who has suicidal thoughts will talk about them, but any mention of suicide should be taken seriously.

If you’re worried about your child, take steps to make your home safe:

• Remove firearms and ammunition or store them securely.
• Lock up prescription medications.

If your child is in immediate danger, call 911 or take them to the emergency room. For urgent mental health support, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text ‘TALK’ to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.

Taking Care of Yourself as a Parent

Your mental health matters, too. Kids pick up on their parents’ emotions, so it’s okay to seek support if you're feeling overwhelmed. Model healthy coping skills, like taking breaks, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in joyful activities. Finding moments to relax as a family, like watching a movie, playing a game, or simply talking, can also help create a sense of security and connection.

Final Thoughts

The pandemic has taken a toll on everyone, especially kids and teens. Keeping the lines of communication open and recognizing signs of distress early can make all the difference. If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a pediatrician or a mental health professional for guidance.