COVID-19 has taken a toll on children's mental health, specifically teenagers. With disruptions in their school life, not being able to play with friends, and take part in their regular activities, kids are showing more aggression, anxiety, and depression as they process what's going on around them.
It's important to have open, honest conversations with kids. Parents should allow their children to ask any questions they have and provide honest, age-appropriate answers.
Monitoring social media and other online platforms is also key to helping catch the challenges kids may be facing early. There is a strong correlation between cyber-bullying and self-harm behaviors.
At Forest View hospital, the child and adolescent program works with the whole family and provides coping skills for healing beyond the hospital. Every child is different and they provide individualized treatment plans for each patient.
Anyone in need of mental health treatment should call the Assessment and Referral Center at 1-800-949-8439. Their team of highly trained staff will be able to connect individuals to the appropriate level of care.
Or visit forestviewhospital.com.
