Due to the complex nature of this pandemic, the social fabric of children’s lives across the globe has been disrupted. The Unicef estimates that at least 330 million children are experiencing some sort of mental health issue because of the confusing state of affairs.
As these are some of the most crucial and impressionable years in a child’s life, countless children must be struggling to manage their emotions and emotional responses. And sadly, that isn’t all that’s happened as a result of COVID-19.
Anxiety
School-going children, specifically, have found it difficult to cope with the sudden shift in their routine. The lack of attention and adequate resources needed for their well-rounded development has led to more distress in their minds than ever before. And being stuck in the house for more than a year hasn’t made it easier for their mental health.
Social isolation
Schools and peer groups are a child’s primary social circles. Unfortunately, the pandemic has brought these young minds to a halt. The mental health of children has been adversely affected by the lack of socialization structure. Researchers believe that this kind of social isolation can “lead to permanent abnormal development.”
If that wasn’t enough, children with pre-existing mental health issues, who have lost caregivers, are at a higher risk of developing panic attacks and depression, as well.
Maturity beyond age
Exposing kids to the adult world can be traumatizing for them. But the COVID-19 has done exactly that. Exposure like this can force open children to a plethora of social and political issues, force them to grow wiser beyond their age, and put their self-care in the back seat.
For these reasons and more, at Balkan Children, we are trying to build a better future for our kids. But we need your help to succeed. Let’s choose happiness for our children.
