By Samantha Loomis
In recent times, there has been a significant surge in pediatric hospitalizations attributed to mental health concerns. Since the Covid Pandemic, hospitals have seen a 30% increase in pediatric hospitalizations. Considering the impact of the pandemic on society, children may be experiencing feelings of doubt and confusion. When we find ourselves abruptly distanced from society, it can precipitate a myriad of challenges, including the emergence of insecurities and various other complications. The disruption to our sense of security can be disconcerting, leading to a range of issues that children may find difficult to navigate, resulting in becoming lost along the way, leading to mental health issues. Unfortunately, the main concern families come in for are thoughts or actions connected to suicide. The social separation children experienced from the pandemic didn’t help the situation, and factoring the increase in social media presence leads to anxiety for children. Mental health conditions affect at least one in ten United States children hospitalized for a medical condition or surgical procedure
Recognizing the importance of children’s mental health on par with their physical well-being is imperative. The signs of a child’s emotional struggles are not always obvious, making it crucial for caregivers and guardians to be observant of subtle signs that could be indicative of underlying challenges. By actively observing and identifying these early warning signals, caregivers can play a pivotal role in addressing emotional hurdles before they escalate. It’s essential to foster an environment that encourages open communication, enabling children to express their emotions freely. Taking proactive steps to understand and address children’s emotional challenges contributes to the foundation of a resilient and emotionally healthy future. Listed below are some common signs of mental health issues:
Excessive anger
Anxiety
Sadness
Substance abuse
Changes in school performance
Difficulty sleeping
Social withdrawal
Change in appetite
Those are just some of the most common signs. If you find yourself grappling with concerns about your child’s well- being, it is crucial to reach out to your child’s primary care provider or consult with a qualified mental health professional. Mental illnesses encompass a broad spectrum of conditions that can significantly impact your mood, thinking, and behavior. It’s disheartening to note that suicide has emerged as the second leading cause of death among children aged 10 to 14, casting a shadow over the well-being of our youth. Ages 18 and younger have too much stress to worry about, from the excessive demands of school, social interactions, and even family dynamics. This mounting pressure becomes overwhelmingly challenging for the younger to try to balance and find solutions for. Including, the escalating surge in mental health cases in straining hospital capacities, leading to a critical shortage of available resources. Families, in their desperation for assistance, often encounter the reality of hospitals being stretched beyond their capacity, having to tragically turn away those seeking out their help. Meanwhile, mental health providers find themselves unable to keep pace with the straining and soaring demand for their services, highlighting the pressing need for comprehensive strategies to address this terrible crisis.
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