MHPSS ( Mental Health and Psychosocial Support ) for children under COVID-19
How do we help our children to cope with stressful situation caused by COVID-19? Just like we are concerned, it is fairly common for children to be scared of the virus which is not visually recognizable.
Adults are capable to make actions or speak up their opinions to save their lives in stressful situation. For example, some of them rushed into shops to buy bulk of toilet papers. However, children are often incapable to act by themselves or have no money to cope with this situation. In fact, many children are unable to verbalize their needs. Let’s talk about typical reaction and behavior of children living in the society threatened by COVID-19.
Your child may start complaining of stomachache or headache, staying up late for not being able to fall asleep, or showing changes in appetite such as requesting less meal but more snacks. You may notice change in your child’s behavior. For example, some children cry much more than usual. Others can be clingy and need to be with you, to keep holding your hand or to be held all the time. It is not unusual that children engage in role play related to germs, COVID-19 and what we are experiencing in the current society. Those examples are child’s reactions to change in our family situation and society threatened by COVID-19.
1. it is important to tell your child that everything is going to be fine because you are with him/her instead of telling them to be patient.
2. Show your child can protect by himself/herself by using proper hand washing technique together and creating structure in daily life. Of course, you have to be a good role model to show proper hand washing and structural life.
3. Do not worry too much even you see your child has behavioral changes mentioned above. Your child can feel if you are worried. Stay calm as an adult.
4. Children tend to do something they are told not to do. When you find your child makes fun of germs or do role play related to our current society, we suggest you to think how we can protect our lives from germs. It is also a great opportunity to talk about how important to stop discrimination.