The first was domestic violence, especially as lockdown happened, many people, mostly women, were effectively trapped in the same space with their abuser, with little recourse to the space outside or other avenues.
Specialists say the pandemic is not only affecting children mentally, but also bringing about behavioural changes in the process. Representation pic
At the beginning of this pandemic, when our world was upended, we saw the spotlight on a few issues which used to be on the periphery and had not got the attention or amplification they deserved.
The first was domestic violence, especially as lockdown happened, many people, mostly women, were effectively trapped in the same space with their abuser, with little recourse to the space outside or other avenues.
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The second was on mental health, as the outbreak threw up significant issues. We see continued focus on these aspects, including a welcome thrust by the State’s paediatric task force on mental health for children recently.
A report in this paper cited how this task force has chalked out a plan to deal with mental stress in children, on the incline because of the outbreak. One of the core concerns is that children are getting hugely affected by the loss all around. They may not be their near and dear ones, but just hearing about deaths, is affecting them very deeply. It is important to be trained to recognise the signs and symptoms of this trauma. This is key as some children may internalise their trauma, others may express it but if it is not recognised, then it is difficult to address or treat it.
It is heartening that there is an acknowledgement of the pandemic’s mental toll on children, and their reactions are not being brushed away as boredom, or pranks or any such thing. Children are one of the most vulnerable demographics affected by this virus and we have to pay special attention to their problems and seek treatment for the same.
As we brace for a possible third wave and with an uptick in cases in children, this becomes even more vital. Wishing our kids, suffering heart-wrenchingly in this pandemic, stay well not just physically but mentally, too.
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