Pediatric mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic

Dr. Dave On Call

In Episode 7 of Dr. Dave On Call, we discuss pediatric mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic with Child-Adolescent Psychiatrist, Dr. Karen Pierce.

Dr. Pierce is a Clinical Associate Professor of Child Psychiatry at Northwestern University. She is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the American Psychiatric Association. She is currently in private practice in Chicago, Illinois.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been challenging for all of us, including children/adolescents. Family members should be aware of that their child(ren) may be experiencing mental health distress. Usually, they will not be able to verbalize their concerns. Their mental health distress may include exhibiting maladaptive behaviors like acting out, arguments, and distancing themselves.

As the majority of us are mitigating in our residences, it is important that we utilize our own physical space during times of distress, especially during conflict resolution. This defined "safe space", can create security, a time to decompress and regulate our emotions.

As schools are now reliant on distance-learning platforms, we should understand that this added screen time can actually have a positive role in our children's' development. Further, we should understand that this increased screen-time for learning will not lead to maladaptive or sedentary behaviors. This learning process may actually provide an opportunity for collective learning at home with the family.

It may be difficult to convey the importance of physical distancing with adolescents, as they have a strong desire for connections with their peers and significant others. However, we must be very clear the health risks of failing to physically distance themselves with non-family members.

As adults and supportive family members, The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry recommends that we:

-Be open and supportive so children/adolescents can ask questions.

-Be authentic about the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

-Reassure children/adolescents that it is acceptable to have fears about this uncertainty.

-Reassure our children of their personal safety and immediate family members.

-Don’t overwhelm them, but be realistic.

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