COVID-19 Pandemic Impact On Kids' Mental Health

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a difficult time for everyone, especially children. News 9's Tevis Hillis has details on how you can be a support to your child a year into the pandemic.

Wednesday, March 3rd 2021, 9:12 am

By: Tevis Hillis

MIDWEST CITY, Okla. -

Medical professionals said the children who have been struggling before the pandemic are struggling even more now.

"Adding a pandemic on top of all of that, it's very difficult," University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center instructor Grace Whaley said.

Children who have experienced trauma, adversities, racial disparities, or financial struggles are continuing to be hit with the stress of a pandemic for a year.

Coping is oftentimes not possible for children who cannot spend time with friends, go on playdates or find other ways to escape reality for brief moments.

Experts said you may notice your child not being able to pay attention, having trouble focusing, trouble sleeping and other behaviors you may not recognize from your child.

"Kids need a responsive caregiver who can help them navigate that and say, ‘Hey, I don't know when exactly we will get back to school, but it is not going to be forever, and we are going to get back soon,’" Whaley said.

Whaley said we are all experiencing grief right now. It is important to choose the right words to help not only yourself but your child get through the pandemic.