Coronavirus pandemic causing mental health to worsen in children
More than three million children in the UK could be facing with poor mental health due to Coronavirus, according to new research from not-for-profit healthcare provider, Benenden Health.
It has been revealed that nearly 26% of parents have seen a negative impact on their children’s mental wellbeing, since the virus outbreak. Moreover, 40% of parents have said they never talk about mental health with their children, which raises concerns of more children suffering in silence.
However, Benenden Health has created an innovative COVID-19 hub, providing online materials and advice for children and parents on how to best deal with their health and well-being during these uncertain times.
Parents have even noted serious physical symptoms of poor mental health being displayed by their children. Figures show that 5% of children grinding teeth, a further 5% losing hair and a shocking 4% self-harming.
In regards to children’s thought processes, one in six children are reported to be suffering by not understanding what is going on and added stress on missing friends. Children are reportedly more worried about missing out on education, than their own health or that of their friends.
Despite these concerns, nearly a fifth of parents have come forward about the lack of access to receive support or resources to help address mental health issues in children.
Cheryl Lythgoe, Head Matron at Benenden Health said:
“Children across the country are likely to have never experienced anything like this before and the disruption, uncertainty and change is shown to be taking its toll on their mental health, whether worrying about school work and exams, isolation from friends and family or being scared about their health or that of their loved ones.”
She added, “Taking the time now to talk, seek help and support each other can be crucial in getting through these challenging times together and promoting positive mental health for once we are out the other side.”
Benenden Health dedicated COVID-19 hub offers advice on how to stay physically and mentally healthy throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
For more information, go to the website at: Benenden Health
Source: The Voice
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