Since the onset of the pandemic nearly a year ago, I’ve witnessed unexpected changes in my teenagers—sides of them I had never seen before.
My daughter began engaging in self-harm last winter. As daylight diminished, she appeared overwhelmed despite having a lighter schedule. When I asked if she felt lonely, she dismissed the idea, explaining that she appreciated being home due to her social anxiety. She thrived academically with online learning, attributing her success to the absence of social pressures. Yet, beneath this facade, she was grappling with significant challenges.
Last summer, my son nearly backed his car over me in the driveway after I told him he couldn’t go out. Frustrated, he started the engine, thinking I would step aside. Knowing he would likely leave without my permission, I stood my ground. He inched closer, revving the engine, and I sat behind his car to make it clear who was in charge. His anger has been palpable, manifesting in self-inflicted frustration. He yearns to escape our home, and his visceral comments about his feelings resonate deeply with me.
It has been heart-wrenching to witness my children navigate their emotions during this time. Like many parents, I’m struggling to handle my feelings about the situation while trying to support them. The pandemic has undoubtedly taken a toll on our teens, a critical period when they typically seek independence and develop their social lives. This phase of life is challenging enough without the added chaos of a global crisis.
The tragic news of a high school senior from a neighboring town taking his own life last fall due to loneliness hit us hard. In June, the CDC reported that 26% of young adults aged 18-24 had contemplated suicide in the past month. Additionally, mental health-related emergency room visits increased by 30% in 2020 compared to the previous year.
According to The Washington Post, Teen Line, a helpline for teens, has experienced a surge in calls throughout the pandemic. Many teenagers are grappling with relationship issues, an uptick in self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or even enduring home environments marred by abuse, all while isolated from their usual support systems like school and friends.
As both parents and teens face unprecedented challenges, it’s difficult to know how to help—especially for those children who are not openly expressive about their feelings. Healthy Children suggests watching for changes in eating and sleeping patterns, a reluctance to video chat or connect with friends, and a decrease in interest in academics and personal hygiene.
If you notice your teenager struggling, it’s crucial to engage them in conversation about their feelings and any potential depression or self-harm thoughts. Prompt medical attention is vital if you’re concerned; your family doctor can assess them for depression and suicidal ideation.
While some teens are managing remarkably well during this pandemic, my daughter’s situation shifted drastically last fall. After numerous discussions, close monitoring, and enrolling her in online counseling, she has returned to a healthier state. Initially, she resisted acknowledging her loneliness, which I believe stemmed from her deep isolation. I knew I couldn’t handle this alone; I required assistance.
Edutopia reports that some educators have noticed that specific students—those who are shy, hyperactive, or highly creative—are finding more success with remote learning than they did in traditional classrooms. This flexibility allows them to work at their own pace and reduces social pressures, contributing to their better performance.
While this presents a silver lining, we must not overlook our teens’ mental health, which has been severely impacted, even for those who initially seemed to cope well. Engage with your children, monitor their daily behaviors, and seek medical help if you observe drastic changes. Teaching them coping strategies will not only support them now but equip them with lifelong skills.
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Summary:
The pandemic has significantly affected teenagers, revealing new challenges and emotional struggles that many are facing. Parents are urged to communicate with their teens, monitor changes in behavior, and seek medical assistance when necessary. While some teens thrive in remote learning environments, mental health remains a pressing concern, emphasizing the importance of support and open dialogue.