BACKUnfortunately, the mental health of young people has been significantly impacted by the pandemic. As many families settle back into pre-Covid routines, there seems to be a pervasive sense of optimism about what lies ahead.
However, children and teenagers are not immune to what is now being termed the “psychological pandemic”. Young people are at risk of not achieving the primary demands of developmental tasks such as procuring independence, identity formation, as well as obtaining and maintaining peer relationships. What kids need most in the current environment is support, understanding, empathy, and encouragement from caring adults. They live up or down to the expectations we set for them.
If there is a solution to the adversity caused by the pandemic, then it is the building of resilience. Resilience is the capacity to face, overcome, be strengthened and transformed by adversity. Never before have parents needed the skills, the knowledge, and the strategies to build resilience in their children as much as they do now. There are seven integral and interrelated components that make up being resilient that can help young people thrive and develop healthy coping strategies.
This recent special report on SchoolTV explores the “7 C’s of Resilience” and includes suggested strategies on how adult carers can best facilitate them. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please contact the Guidance Team or seek other medical or professional help.
To access the special report, please click here.
Jay Smith, Head of Guidance
