One of the most striking things SCDN writers have noticed in years of reading police reports is the soaring number of children either threatening to harm themselves or actually hurting themselves. Back in early 2020, we maybe saw one or two calls a month logged in Scioto County. But things changed after the COVID lockdown. These days, it’s at least one a day, but often more.
The mental health of children continues to be a big concern in 2024, years after the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted their lives. Experts say the number of children experiencing suicidal thoughts or attempting suicide remains higher than before the pandemic, and families, schools, and healthcare systems are struggling to keep up. Some studies show suicidal thoughts in kids are eight times higher than pre-pandemic.
Why Is This Still Happening?
Even though life has returned to normal for many people, children still feel the effects of the pandemic. Here are some reasons why this problem hasn’t gone away:
- Unresolved Stress from the Pandemic: The pandemic caused major disruptions in children’s routines, education, and social lives. Many are still dealing with the emotional fallout, such as anxiety, depression, and feelings of loneliness.
- Not Enough Mental Health Help: There aren’t enough therapists, counselors, or child psychiatrists to meet the growing demand for mental health care. This means many kids have to wait a long time to get the help they need.
- Social Media Pressures: Since the pandemic, children and teens are spending more time online. Social media can lead to bullying, comparing themselves to others, and feeling like they’re not good enough. These pressures can take a toll on their mental health.
- Family Struggles: Many families are still dealing with problems like financial stress, job loss, or the loss of loved ones from the pandemic. When parents are stressed, it can affect their children too.
What Can Parents and Caregivers Do?
If you’re worried about a child, there are steps you can take:
- Watch for Warning Signs: These can include changes in mood, trouble sleeping, withdrawing from friends, or talking about feeling hopeless.
- Monitor Social Media Use: Parents can help by keeping an eye on their kids’ social media use and encouraging them to spend time offline with friends and family.
- Ask Questions: It’s okay to ask a child if they’re feeling sad or thinking about hurting themselves. This won’t make the problem worse—in fact, it can help them open up.
- Get Help: If you think a child is in danger, call a mental health professional, talk to their school counselor, or contact a crisis hotline.
While the challenges are daunting, they also present an opportunity for communities, educators, and caregivers to unite and support our youngest generation. By working together to find answers and strengthen their ability to cope, we can offer hope and healing to those who need it most. The well-being of our children depends on it, and their future is worth the effort.