Rates of childhood mental health concerns were already steadily rising over the past decade. But the coronavirus pandemic, as well as the issue of racial inequality, has exacerbated the challenges.
The American Academy of Pediatrics, the Children’s Hospital Association, and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry joined together to study the issue. “This worsening crisis in child and adolescent mental health is inextricably tied to the stress brought on by COVID-19 and the ongoing struggle for racial justice and represents an acceleration of trends observed prior to 2020.”
Overall, the data shows that in 2020, the percentage of emergency department visits for mental health emergencies rose by 24% for children between the ages of 5 and 11 and 31% for those 12 to 17, compared with 2019.
These are the important conversations we have at Hera Hub. We were lucky enough to have Carlsbad member Elle Burkhart join us for a recent Parent Sub-Hub meeting and appreciated her take on keeping anxiety at bay.
Elle Burkhart is an Emotional Intelligence Practitioner, Wellness Advocate and mom of three grown boys. She has made it her mission to offer support and comfort to those who want to be the best version of themselves. Through her role as a Middle School Instructional Aid and student advocate, she was surprised to learn how many students are dealing with anxiety related issues. Seeing the need for social/emotional support, she obtained an Emotional Intelligence Practitioner Certification and is now offering EQ tutoring to students implementing the Clifton Strengths Assessment as one of her tools for self awareness and empowerment. Learning and understanding self awareness, can guide people in developing their authentic selves and prepare them for a healthy, productive adulthood.
Learn more at www.feelempoweredeveryday.com
