The COVID-19 pandemic has created isolation and the need for mental health treatment for people of all ages. If your child has had limited contact with peers in the last year and noticeable mood swings, they may have mental health needs not being addressed. Isolation can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression that can be helped by youth mental health services. While you can talk to your child about what is going on, you may not be effective at managing their depression or anxiety. If you believe your child is at risk because of the ongoing pandemic, reach out for treatment that can help ease the burden of isolation. According to the CDC, mental health-related emergency room visits for children increased by a third in 2020. Thus, having someone to talk to about the emotions and thoughts one is feeling is key to making sure young people aren’t overwhelmed or struggle with more serious mental health issues.
Youth Mental Health Services
Finding youth mental health services during the COVID-19 pandemic may involve virtual therapy instead of therapy in person. If your child is in crisis, residential mental health treatment programs are available to keep your child safe. If your child discusses a plan to hurt themselves or cannot manage their emotions, you may need to have an emergency evaluation done to determine what services will support your child at this time. Your child may need mental health treatment if:
- They are more isolated and won’t talk to you about what is going on
- They talk about hurting themselves
- Your child talks about feeling anxious, depressed, or can’t explain what is happening
- You notice major mood swings with your child
Youth mental health treatment is focused on the specific needs of your child. Therapy will help, and an individual therapist may identify further treatment options necessary to keep your child safe. When you notice that your child is struggling because of pandemic related isolation, it’s time to find the right help.
How Therapy Can Help Your Child With Anxiety or Depression
You may not be able to change much about the COVID-19 pandemic and the isolation your child is experiencing. However, when your child works with a therapist, they will get support for their mental health that is difficult for a parent to provide. Therapy can allow your child to talk about their anxiety or depression without worrying about what you might think. When your child speaks privately to a therapist, they have the opportunity to:
- Talk about what is going on in their life to another adult
- Learn new coping skills with the help of a professional
- Find ways to reduce their feelings of isolation
- Improve communication skills to let you know how they are feeling
Therapy can give your child a way to express their feelings without worrying about how it impacts you. Some youth are not completely open with what is going on, for fear they will disappoint their parents. If the therapist believes there is a concern for more comprehensive treatment, the therapist can talk to you about your child’s needs, and help you prepare for a crisis should one occur. Therapy can help your child cope during this difficult time and provide the support needed to get through the isolation.
Find Youth Mental Health Services Today
If you are worried about your child because of the COVID-19 pandemic and isolation, it’s important to find the right youth mental health treatment before it becomes a crisis situation. Talk to your child about what is going on in their life, and look for ways to improve their overall mental health. When you make it a priority to talk to your child, it becomes easier to determine if there are mental health needs that must be addressed. Get your child the support they deserve when they are clearly struggling with the pandemic by searching for treatment options.
