(CNN.) While the COVID-19 epidemic has left a huge physical and psychological impact on thousands of Americans, there has been a subtler impact on the mental health and well-being of children as they return to learning in person.
The Kitleys of Chicago were delighted when their four children could return to school last fall. But, halfway through the school year there were bumps.
The transition back to school was difficult for my youngest child, Kelley Kitley stated. She felt a sense of safety and security starting at age seven and ending at age eight and a quarter.
Kitley said that her daughter became used to having her parents around, but then suddenly everyone was back at school.
She stated that there wasn’t a gradual transition.
Kitley is a therapist, and she also sees tension in patients.
She said that they are experiencing increased anxiety about how to communicate and be with people, build friendships, and feel comfortable in their environment.
The U.S. The 54-page advisory was issued by the U.S.Surgeon General. It outlines how the pandemic has had a devastating impact on children’s mental health.
A global study has shown that youth anxiety and depression have doubled in the last decade.
Because there is an epidemic of mental health issues that theyve been experiencing, U.S. Dr. Vivek Muthy, Surgeon General, stated.
Kitley claims that a group of empowerment for girls she started has helped the children.
Teshia Stovall Dula, a counselor in Atlanta, says that children can feel overwhelmed by the return to school transition and she provides a safe space.
They will often come to my workplace to get away from the noise. Dula stated that she was surprised to hear that.
Her advice to parents was this: If your children seem too young for their age, there may be a reason. They missed out on more development than a year with their peers.
They act so young even though they are 12-years-old. Dula said that they resemble elementary school children.
She also suggests being patient with your child during their transitions from one way of living to the next.
Their world was turned upside down. Adults can bounce back faster, but it takes a little longer for them, she said.
Many children are also uncertain about their learning environments, as they move between in-person or remote learning when COVID-19 rises.
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