Each generation is marked by something which happened as they were growing up, the older generation still speaks of World War 2. Those who grew up in the 60s, 70s and 80s speak of black and white TV, Walkman, telephone cards and video cassettes. These things are obsolete to the younger generation. More recently, whenever you asked someone where you were when you first heard of 9/11, you invariably got an answer.
In the past 100 days or so our lives have changed so much. Many speak of the impact of isolation and restrictions imposed on themselves, the vulnerable and the elderly, others speak of the economic impact, work and disposable income. However, the impact that COVID-19 is having and is going to have in the long term on the younger generation is yet to be seen. They will remember the days when school suddenly stopped, when a viral illness was killing people and so they had to stay home for months. Some did not even have time to say bye to their friends. Others had to keep away from their grandparents who prior to COVID-19 were present in their lives more than their own parents. Others have been separated from either of their parents due to social or family reasons. Children and young people may give the impression that all is ok, that they are adjusting but what is really going on in their little brains is yet to be seen. The mindset of #GenerationCOVID-19 is shaping itself.
As Commissioner for Mental Health, safeguarding the younger generation’s mental health and wellbeing has always been a priority. Research shows that 40% of long-term mental illness starts before the age of 15 years under normal circumstances. In these abnormal times, it is predicted that there will be more scarred people. #GenerationCovid-19 will survive the pandemic, since it seems that the young are spared the severe physical effects of the disease, but mental anguish is there to stay. In Mental Health Awareness week, promoted by the Mental Health Foundation, we would like to share some thoughts on the importance of building resilience in the younger generation.
Resilience means being able to get out of stress, challenges or trauma. We cannot change the way young people are living this moment, but we can give them the tools, stand by them and help them face the challenges along the way. What we can do is give them the skills, so these challenges will not break them. We can build their resilience.
How can this be done? First and foremost, we need to watch out for the way our behaviour as adults is affecting the younger ones under our care. At the same time, we have to watch out for any changes in their behaviour such as being withdrawn, quieter or more anxious, distracted or exhibiting disturbed sleep patterns. As adults, we have had serious difficulties in facing COVID-19 and expressing our feelings in words, so let alone young people. Often young people do not want any complex answers. Knowing you are honest and that they are secure may be enough to help them face this difficult time. Showing youngsters that you are also learning to cope in the new COVID era helps them feel that they are not alone and that their feelings are real.
Resilience needs supportive and meaningful relationships. Being in a loving relationship with a caring adult gives children the opportunity to develop vital coping skills They will be in a better position to deal with stress meaning they are better protected from psychological damage. A stable environment will help youngsters manage their own behaviour and feelings and increase their capacity to develop coping strategies. Good nutrition, physical exercise and being surrounded by positivity is very upbuilding. Acknowledge their skills. Encourage them to make their own decisions. This helps them build their strength to face challenges when they do something difficult. When they have a sense of mastery, they are less likely to be reactive to future stress and more likely to handle future challenges. Problem-solving is another tool. Anything that strengthens their problem-solving skills will nurture their resilience.
Facing fear is very empowering. Let youngsters know that the courage to do something brave and difficult is more important than the outcome. That is a lesson for life. Resilience is not about never falling. Resilience is about getting back up again, and that there is no hurry for this to happen. All of us experience emotional pain, setbacks, grief and sadness sometimes. Feelings always have a good reason for being there, even when we do not feel good about ourselves.
Even though we may do our best to help young people, there may be situations where we need professional guidance. That does not mean that we are failing. When our children run a temperature, we rush to the doctor. So, if we notice that their moods or emotions are beyond what we can deal with, it is important to seek professional advice. Some schools are offering professional counselling and other support services. FSWS also offers services for young people. The online platform Kellimni.com is also offering a number of free online sessions for young people 16+, for more information send an email on [email protected]. For ideas on how to help children and young people cope during this time one may access COVID-19! How Can I Protect Myself and Others? on https://ssec.si.edu/covid-19