Mental Health Amongst Youth – Finding Hope During the Pandemic

Mental health is a person’s condition regarding their psychological and emotional well-being. It impacts how we feel, think, act, and affects how we relate to others, make choices, and handle any stressors in life (Oxford Dictionary).

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 60% of mental health services for vulnerable people, including children and adolescents, were disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic. While some countries have adopted telemedicine or teletherapy to overcome disruptions to in-person services, there remains significant disparities in the utilization of these interventions. Working in the field of social work during the pandemic and having to speak with families virtually was a challenge. Many times, it was found to be difficult for children and youth to have their private time; having to open up to what may be going on in the home. If there was any kind of abuse, the children were unable to speak due to the close proximity amongst family members or possibly the abuser.

Professional Perspective

As a professional in the field of social work, I can only imagine what occurs in the minds of children, and hope and pray that some may know enough to encourage themselves throughout this trying time. The Lord reminded us to cast all of our cares on him, because he cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). We are also reminded by David in Psalm 34:17-20 “When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all….”. Sometimes the Lord delivers by helping us to change our mindset, focusing our mind on Him through prayer, reading His word, or engaging in entertainment that includes Him such as playing virtual Bible Bingo, Bible Trivia on Kahoot, online Jeopardy about who Jesus is, etc.

Looking back on where God has brought us from through 2020, it was an overwhelming feeling; however, we now are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. Questions that may be lurking in the minds of our youth are: What will it be like returning to school and socializing with my friends? Some may have concerns returning to school for fear of contracting the COVID-19 virus. How does this fear impact their mental state and what are some challenges that they experience with this fear? Whatever the concerns, please do not lose hope because God’s grace is sufficient in times of difficulty (2 Corinthian 12:9).

The Word of God reminds us that in the presence of counselors, there is safety (Proverbs 11:14). Parents must seek out community resources such as counselling, play therapy, parental mentoring to assist with children who are exhibiting behavioral issues.  It is also important for parents to encourage the child and/or youth to maintain healthy interactions and relationships with their peers. 

There is an available Christian website www.parentingtodaysteens.org,  and also a federal website https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/ , which provide great resources to assist parents in finding help with children and teens who are having mental health problems.

Mental health illness among children and youth is a problem that parents and the church must address. COVID-19 has exacerbated these issues, and we can no longer turn a blind eye to the fact that mental health is a real foe, which impacts the minds of many. While we do strongly believe in the power of prayer, seeking counseling may also be necessary.  God wants us to be prosperous and in good health, even as our soul prospers (3 John 1:2). This also includes our mental well-being and there is no shame or guilt in utilizing the resources that are available.