DEPRESSION has become the leading cause of illness and disability among adolescents worldwide, which in most cases goes undetected and untreated, increasing the risk of suicide.
This is according to Abdurahman Kenny, Mental Health Portfolio Manager for Pharma Dynamics, who says that while teen mental health was already declining prior to Covid-19, the pandemic created conditions that exacerbated feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
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“Disruptions to routines, missed milestones, extended school disruptions, prolonged social isolation and fear and anxiety over health and finances have, without doubt, taken a cumulative toll on the mental well-being of youth. Extraordinary stress and disruption, as experienced during the pandemic, can be very damaging for a child’s psyche that typically thrives on routine and predictability,” Kenny said.
He stated that the study found older children to be impacted more severely than younger ones, likely because of puberty, hormonal changes and lack of social interaction.
On the other hand, girls were more prone to depression and anxiety than boys, which aligns with studies from before the pandemic.
Kenny explained that depression, anxiety and behavioural disorders are among the most common mental health concerns in youth.
“Depressive symptoms, including sadness, loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy, disturbed sleep, changes in appetite, lack of concentration, irritability, low energy or little motivation to do anything, risky or harmful behaviour, substance abuse and feeling hopeless for weeks on end, can lead to suicide ideation if not properly addressed.”
He said that in South Africa, where there are limited mental health resources, it’s important for parents to become more aware of behavioural changes in their children in order to provide them with the right support.
What you can do as a parent:
- Be there for your child: Show empathy and understanding – even if they don’t want to talk to you or do much of anything. Don’t be judgemental or try to solve their problems; just listen to what they are saying, and let them know that you are there for them while showing compassion for what they’re going through.
- Focus on the positive: Compliment them on the positive things they do – even if it’s just going to school, setting the dinner table or helping with the dishes.
- Encourage self-care: Getting regular exercise, eating healthy meals, sleeping enough, participating in sports and wholesome hobbies that make them feel good about themselves, limiting screen time and social media use, practising gratitude by keeping a journal, encouraging social interaction and setting achievable goals are things they can do that will improve their mood and self-esteem.
- Help them to set boundaries: Healthy boundaries are essential for youth to form positive relationships with others.
- Get them the help they need: Discuss going to a therapist if their mood doesn’t improve. If they don’t want to go, ask what way you can help. If they tell you to back off, don’t retaliate with anger.
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