We are of the belief that pity parties are never much fun. While COVID-19 has been one of the most trying experiences in people’s lifetimes, without undermining the tragedy of unexplainable loss, the focus to remain positive and maintain a healthy mental outlook, notably with our youth, is something we can control.
In a recent podcast on happy healthy with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Dr. Amanda Craig of MMFT, she reviews useful guidance on how to keep young people in a positive disposition during these unprecedented times.
Dr. Amanda Craig’s Advice on Children and Positive Mental Awareness Guidance During COVID-19
- Don’t be overly concerned about kids losing a year of academics, they are gaining life experience. Resilience, being rounded, and the ability to adapt. In order to be resilient you have to experience some adversity.
- They may be going on the school bus less often, instead they are learning how to interact on Zoom and be more independent with their homework and responsibilities. There are new adversities that they will triumph over.
- There is an increase in anxiety and depression, mostly with the tween girl (ages nine to 12). Kids are missing their friends, structure, and those children who have added services may feel that academics are moving to fast. Reiterate that they are learning life skills. Find enrichment activities at home. Keep active via walking, fitness, exploring the outdoors and build on what your home environment can offer. Renew classic pastimes like baking—kids and tweens love that. Reading, puzzles, coloring, being in the fresh air, connecting with animals and the neighborhood in a safe way is essential to a positive well-being. Build an education outside of the classroom.
- Model social regulation.
- Participate in in-pals by exchanging letters with locals, which is an exercise in modeling kindness.
- Encourage family members to name your stress or anger. It’s necessary to have emotion.
- Stress can lead to physical ailments, thus find ways to manage it via healthy outlets.
- Ask your kids questions. Be curious in a fun way but don’t pressure the Q&A. Children will pick up on the scary energy.
- Be aware of your kids mental well-being. What are they doing on their electronics, social media, observe what they do and let them know we are here for them.
- Watch their facial expressions. They are comforted by our presence. We need to work on our judgment.
- The Spanish flu ended after two years, thus there is an end in sight. This opportunity increases the potential for being closer and kinder to one another. It gives us a new stress level that we’ve never experience before. Have compassion in ourselves, which will help us get through these times and other stressful moments. How we manage our challenges will feel more authentic.
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- Dr. Amanda Craig pictured in her office.
Resources:
Dr. Amanda Craig: Manhattan Marriage and Family Therapy
Mental Awareness in Today’s Kids Podcast: happy healthy
