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CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS GRAPPLE WITH
WAVE OF MENTAL ILLNESS: Are We Doing Enough To Protect Our Children?
T
he COVID-19 has affected the lives of people all around the globe. Restrictions and safety measures put in place to tamp down the spread of the virus have imposed a complete alteration of the psychosocial environment in the affected countries and has the potential of affecting the mental health of both adolescents and children. Although the isolation measures bring families opportunities to bond and also promote personal growth, there are disadvantages to these measures that might severely outweigh the benefits offered. Anxiety and the lack of physical peer contact could affect the lives of adolescents and children, especially those with existing mental issues or those who have disabilities or mental trauma.
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The endeavors being made by the government to curtail the virus included online learning for many children leading to the cancelation of extracurricular activities. This has taken a toll on many children who are struggling to cope with the present situation. Figures from the government show that the number of children brought to the hospital for mental health issues has significantly risen by 24%, and so has the number of preteens and youths, which is by 31%. Hospitals have also reported a rise in the number of depression and suicidal issues amongst children, especially those who attempt to overdose. These intensive mental health care issues only THE POWER IS NOW MAGAZINE | FEBRUARY 2021
