COVID anxiety in kids: Symptoms to watch out for and ways to treat them

Since the onset of the novel coronavirus, many people have borne the ills of the disease. As much as the adults, children too have been affected by the virus not just physically but also mentally.

During such times, where people are dealing with their own losses and traumatic experiences, children are facing similar issues and need all the support during such trying times. That said, if you think that children are not susceptible to psychological implications of the pandemic, then you're absolutely wrong.

Both adults and kids are prone to experiencing anxiety associated with COVID-19. The devastation caused by the second wave portrayed the reality of the havoc the virus can wreak. Psychologists and counsellors have also noted a sharp increase in the cases of children disturbed by the virus, which is why parents must pay close attention to their children's mental health.

Apart from the fear of the virus and the physical symptoms it may cause, a child can experience other several types of anxiety due to COVID-19. Some of them are as follows:

- Separation anxiety, where the child is constantly worried about being apart from their parents.

- Social anxiety i.e. the inability to interact with people outside their comfort zone.

- Stress and anxiety associated with loss and trauma.

- Stress linked to online schooling.

- Sleep anxiety leading to sleeping disorders can also lead to a poor mental health in kids, impairing their cognitive functions.

As a parent, if you want to help your child and relieve them of the stress and anxiety they're facing due to the pandemic, you can watch out for these warning signs and symptoms and act accordingly.

- Extreme mood swings

- Disinterested behaviour and withdrawal from family and friends

- Change in sleeping or eating patterns

- Aggression

- Loss or increase in appetite

- Prolonged episodes of sadness

- Substance abuse or drinking problems in teens

- Self harming activities

Parents are the guiding light to any child. During tough times, kids look up to their parents from help and support. Therefore, in such trying times, when COVID is still very much prevalent, tending to your child's mental health is extremely crucial. As a parent, you can help them cope with the current state of events.

Help your child develop a more positive outlook towards life. Make them understand the value of spending time with family. In times of distress, talk to them and listen more. Ask them to share their thoughts and while you may feel tempted to dismiss their worry, avoid doing it. Instead provide a solution or enrich their problem solving abilities. Help them get rid of their insecurities and raise a more confident kid. Most importantly, empathise with them but validate with feelings.