10 Signs That Lockdown Might Be Affecting Your Children’s Mental Health

Did you know that lockdown has actually been good for some children's mental health? 

Some parents have noticed their children have been happier and less stressed… but why might that be? 

If this is the case then it could be because whatever was causing children to be stressed or unhappy pre lockdown wasn’t present whilst isolating at home. It could be that they haven't been attending school where the pressure on children to prepare for tests can be higher, perhaps bullying at school was an issue or maybe they're just having lots of fun each day!

How have your children been feeling during this pandemic? Where do you think their overall mental health has been?

Whilst some children might have benefitted mentally in some way during lockdown, for others it would have been difficult and may have even affected their mental health. As a parent it’s important we are aware of some of the signs that might suggest our children are struggling in some way even if they haven’t spoken to us about how they feel.

Here are 10 common signs to look out for in your child:

1. Significant changes in their mood including a persistent negative mood. 
2. Significant and unusual changes in their behaviour changes (usually happy and well behaved but not being disruptive and anxious).
3. Negative views about themselves, putting themselves down for no reason.
4. Isolating themselves and avoiding contact with other people in the household.  
5. They have lost interest in many of the activities they used to enjoy.
6. They are having difficulty sleeping, can't get to sleep or sleeping for extra long periods.
7. Unusually low levels of physical energy.
8. Physical symptoms such as headaches and stomachaches. 
9. Changes in their appetite and sudden weight loss or gain
10. Self-harming behaviour.

What Should You Do If You're Concerned As A Parent?

Speak to your child about what you’re concerned about but remember to be patient, supportive and non-judgemental when discussing their concerns. Often children just need to share their concerns with a trusted adult who cares about them.

Discuss potential solutions together and work with them in coming up with a plan of action that they feel would help them. This could be as simple as agreeing to spend more time with them, checking in on a daily basis to talk through concerns or even doing some creative/fun activities they think would help them feel better.

If you’re still worried about your child’s mental health and you want to talk to someone about it then  you could discuss this with your family GP as well as these UK charities:

NSPCC - 0808 800 5000  

YoungMinds - 0808 802 5544

Share how you’ve been supporting your children’s mental health and wellbeing!

Stay Strong, Be Positive!

Adam

Help Your Children Stay Happy, Positive and Mentally Strong During These Challenging Times…

If you'd like to learn more about simple ways you can help your children be more mentally healthy and happier, check out Wellbeing in 15. It's a programme that includes 10 mini-courses and teaches children about topics such as taking care of their mental health, improving their confidence, boosting their self esteem and building resilience. These are all key areas that help to provide the right foundation for children to have positive mental health.  

And for a limited period of time you can get an extra discount To Support Children's Mental Health Whilst Homeschooling.

LEARN MORE: www.onegoal.co.uk/wellbeingin15