The Covid-19 pandemic has had a negative physical and mental impact on people of all ages and walks of life.
The pandemic, which is mostly seen in adults and older individuals, can also occur in children and adolescents. Stating that children who test positive for Covid-19 and are quarantined may experience feelings of anxiety, helplessness and fear, experts advise parents to provide accurate information, be honest and clear when talking to their children.
Üsküdar University NPISTANBUL Hospital Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Specialist Dr. Can Tumba made important statements about the psychology of children who tested positive for Covid-19 and gave advice to families.
Anxiety management should be done well
Stating that the Covid-19 pandemic has physical and mental effects on individuals, Dr. Can Tumba said, "Although the disease targets populations other than children and adolescents, the number of children and adolescents quarantined due to Covid-19 is also considerable. With the pandemic, we have more closely understood how important it is to protect mental health as well as physical health. At this point, managing anxiety better, trying to minimize uncertainty and aiming to increase the perception of competence will be extremely valuable moves."
Anxiety, fear and helplessness are at the forefront
Stating that children quarantined due to Covid-19 may experience feelings of anxiety, helplessness and fear, Tumba said, "Sleep irregularities, feeling lonely, sadness, irritability, intolerance and concentration difficulties due to increased anxiety are very common in the child and adolescent age group. Similarly, it is natural that concepts such as epidemic, disease transmission, the need for quarantine, protecting oneself and the environment from disease are perceived in different ways in different age groups."
Families have important duties
Tumba said that the first move families should make at this point is to provide the right information and continued his words as follows:
"The questions asked by children should be answered clearly, sincerely and in a language they can understand. They should be reminded that the quarantine period will be temporary, that their loved ones are doing well, and that many people are concerned about their situation even if they are not with them in person. They should be told that staying at home for a while is beneficial and necessary for them and their environment, and children should be prevented from being exposed to exaggerated and frightening news on television and social media during this period. Daily routines should be maintained at home, and video calls with friends and parents should be supported to maintain social flow. Parents should provide sufficient emotional support to their children in a calm and determined stance during this period. While going through this sensitive process, it would be appropriate to make plans, organize some physical activities at home for their children, healthy nutrition, sleep hygiene and make efforts to maintain positive emotions."
Parents should be more patient
Pointing out the importance of informing children correctly and being honest and clear with them in this process, Dr. Can Tumba said, "Establishing and maintaining daily habits, following school and class schedules, parents should be patient and vigilant to meet their children's emotional needs more than in the normal period. Maintaining social relations via phone or internet will make the process more comfortable for both parents and children and will play a very important role in preventing negative consequences that may occur in the future."
