COVID-19 And Your Child’s Mental Health
COVID-19 has affected us all. As San Antonio and the surrounding area’s only locally owned and operated health plan, Community First Health Plans has seen firsthand the pandemic’s impact on the mental health of our Members. This includes even our youngest Members – children and teens – who have had to constantly adjust to new routines, added responsibilities, and new stressors.
Optimal physical health is very important, but equally as important is mental well-being. While children often show resilience during tough times, it’s important to remember that if you’re struggling to adapt to your “new normal,” your child may be struggling, too.
For over 25 years, Community First has provided our Members and the community at large access to resources and care that can help strengthen mental health and find solutions. The following information can help you recognize if your child is struggling, find out how you can help, and where to turn for additional resources.
Recognizing Signs Of Stress In Your Child
Stress impacts everyone differently. If your child is not or cannot communicate with you that they are struggling, but you suspect there might be a problem, look for the following signs:
Changes in sleep patterns
Changes in appetite
Separation anxiety
Increased tantrums and acting out
Bedwetting
Increased aggression
Changes in mood, including irritability, rage, frequent conflicts
Changes in behaviors, including personal relationships
Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
Problems with memory, thinking, or concentration
Less interest in schoolwork, decreased motivation
Substance abuse
Changes in appearance, lack of hygiene
How Can I Help My Child At Home?
Talk to your child. Communicate with them in a way that he or she will understand. This might include:
Extra hugs and positive affirmations.
Use of visual aids, pictures, and stories to model how your child might be feeling.
Keeping a routine. Even if that means scheduling 15 minutes of uninterrupted play with your child every day, at the same time.
Spending more time outdoors. Fresh air and physical activity can have a huge impact on your child’s mental health.
Connecting virtually with family members, providers, and therapists. Remind your child that he or she is not alone and there are many people in their corner, rooting for their success.
Modeling effective coping skills. Show your child that it’s okay not to be okay, because sometimes you feel angry, frustrated, and overwhelmed, too. Take deep breaths to calm down and explain your actions. Or tell your child you’re going for a walk to destress and invite them to come with you.
Most importantly, let your child know that they are not alone, that they are loved, and that asking for help doesn’t make them weak, but brave, courageous, and strong
What Resources/Activities Are Available That Might Benefit My Child’s Mental Health?
The COVID-19 vaccine has provided a light at the end of the tunnel, but we still must remain vigilant in order to protect ourselves and others. Here are a few safe activities that might make a difference in your child’s mental health status.
Visit your local park or hiking trail. San Antonio is filled with amazing parks and trails designed for all ages and abilities. Visit Sanantonio.gov/ParksAndRec for a list of parks and facilities. (Another idea for a fun, outdoor, family activity – a visit to Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s first theme park built with special-needs individuals in mind.)
Check out sports teams and activities for children with special needs. Kinetic Kids is currently offering virtual programs 24/7. Visit Kinetickidstx.org to learn more.
The internet has a wealth of information to help support families. Here are a few valuable sites:
Child Mind Institute: includes guides on how to talk to children about COVID-19, how to handle stress and anxiety, and dealing with grief and loss.
KidsHealth by the Nemours Foundation – features videos and articles for parents and children of all ages to help families cope.
CDC COVID-19 Parental Resource Kit – divides resources by age groups and includes fun activities like downloadable scavenger hunts, activity books, board games, and more.
Everyone needs a brain-break now and then. Here are a few family-friendly videos, games, and activities you can enjoy together:
PBS Kids: PBS offers educational resources for parents, including games and activities, which address a variety of topics for children up to age 8.
TED-Ed YouTube Channel: TED-Ed provides short educational videos on a wide variety of topics to satisfy the most curious imaginations.
Go Noodle YouTube Channel: GoNoodle videos encourage children to get moving using dancing, stretching, running, jumping, deep breathing, and wiggling exercises.
For more information about local community resources near you, visit Community First Health Plans COVID-19 Community Resources and Assistance.