Author: Dr Nandita de Souza | September 23rd, 2021
Children have suffered greatly during the Covid 19 pandemic restrictions and lockdown. They have lost critical support systems out of the home, such as schooling, peer interactions, hobby classes and sports. These areas of their lives are important as stress busters, giving children an opportunity to chat, play, learn, engage, achieve and have fun. As the weeks have dragged into months and now approach two years, the rug of resilience has been pulled out from under their feet.
We all know that small amounts of stress can motivate children to do better. However, when stress is prolonged, intense, unaddressed, with no end in sight, it can turn into ‘toxic stress’. This leads to childhood trauma, which has severe long term impact on the child’s mental and emotional development.
We cannot end the pandemic as individuals. However, each of us can reach out to children wherever they are and talk to them. Ask them how things have been going for them and what they do to cope. Listen to their stories, their thoughts and feelings. Appreciate their efforts to take care of themselves and stay brave. Let them know that its OK to feel disheartened, worried and angry. Tell them that help is available. Show them you care.
DR NANDITA DE SOUZA
Director and Paediatrician