The coronavirus epidemic has a great impact not only on the economic situation, but also on people's mental health. It has changed our lives in all areas, but above all it has changed the lives of young people.
At first glance, this may not seem like a big problem, but socializing and socializing is an important part of growing up for teenagers. From spending time at school every day, they were suddenly forced to stay at home - to study at a distance, they stayed overnight without socializing with peers, sports training, etc. Their lives moved to homes within the four walls. All these changes greatly affected theirs mental and physical health.
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Research has shown, that as many as 72% of young people described distance learning as less effective. Above all, they had problems with understanding the learning material, planning and organizing work. They felt burdened with school work and all this took away their motivation for a job well done. Most agreed that they lacked contact with their peers. The school is an institution that has taken over many tasks of families, which is why the problems increased even more when it was closed.
It occurs in most young people fear, feeling of helplessness, insomnia, sadness and loneliness. For adolescents, their peers are sometimes more important for healthy development than the family itself. They need peers to develop their wits, push their limits, gain competitiveness and even fall in love for the first time. Technology helps them to some extent during this time, but it certainly cannot replace all of this.
As research shows, the epidemic also affected their physical health. They stopped engaging in daily physical activities (sports training, fitness), they changed their eating habits, as they ate more than usual. The result is accumulated kilograms and an additional drop in motivation and self-esteem.
These are certainly important, and to a large extent, disturbing facts about how a year of living with the coronavirus has touched their fields.
Some tips on how to help a teenager during an epidemic
Understanding – allow them to express their opinion, listen to them.
Support – let them know that you stand by their side and support them.
Experience - share your experiences and mention how the situation affects you, stay positive.
A conversation - do not forget to ask them how they feel and how they experience the new reality.
Planning the day - it is important to prepare a plan in advance, what to do, for how long: studying, reading material.
Physical activity - take time for physical activity, whether it's a walk or exercise in the living room.
Relaxation – take time to relax by reading a book, listening to music, singing, anything that helps you relax.
Maintaining quality long-distance relationships - even if he doesn't see his friends every day, he can take some time, call them and talk to them.
