When I first listened to pediatrician and California’s surgeon general, Dr. Sarah Mitchell, discuss Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), I was taken aback. Her TED Talk has garnered millions of views, and for good reason. ACEs are traumatic events during childhood that can lead to a variety of mental, physical, and social issues. Dr. Mitchell notes that about 68% of individuals surveyed have experienced at least one ACE, with higher scores correlating with worse health outcomes.
Implications for Our Children
What implications does this have for our children? Could the quarantine measures during the global pandemic be causing every child to encounter an ACE? This thought may seem alarming, but it’s a reality we might have to confront. To better understand the situation, we consulted experts on the impact of COVID-19 on children’s mental health.
According to the CDC, an ACE includes “potentially traumatic events that occur in childhood,” such as witnessing violence, experiencing abuse or neglect, or dealing with family crises like a member attempting or dying by suicide. There may also be issues like substance abuse or mental health challenges within the home.
Dr. Mitchell shared with our team, “A substantial body of research indicates that prolonged activation of a child’s stress response, without adequate nurturing support, can result in lasting changes in their brain structure and function, and even influence how DNA is expressed. This is referred to as the toxic stress response.” Although the measures taken to mitigate COVID-19, such as school closures and social distancing, are not classified as ACEs, they do act as risk factors for toxic stress.
Long-Term Effects of the Pandemic
Neuropsychologist Dr. Alex Rivera from New York City added that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of the pandemic on children. Sadly, we will only know the extent of the impact with time.
Experiencing one or more ACEs can have significant and lasting consequences. The CDC warns that ACEs can lead to chronic health issues, mental illness, and substance abuse. Specifically, individuals with high ACE scores face increased risks for injuries, sexually transmitted infections, teen pregnancies, and a host of chronic illnesses such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Toxic stress can hinder brain development, affecting attention, decision-making, learning, and stress responses. Children may struggle with attachment and form stable relationships. Moreover, the CDC has highlighted that some children may be exposed to additional toxic stress due to systemic issues like racism or economic hardship. With schools, which often provide essential support, closed during the pandemic, many kids may be at a heightened risk of experiencing ACEs.
Supporting Children During Quarantine
Dr. Rivera emphasized that not all households are the same; some may experience elevated tension due to job losses, financial strains, or health issues. The disruptions caused by COVID-19 have shaken the foundations of normalcy in countless homes, adding undue stress to children who are now learning virtually and missing social interactions with peers and family members.
So, what can parents do to help their children cope during quarantine? Dr. Rivera suggests shielding younger children from distressing news. For older kids, it’s crucial to explain the importance of social distancing, hygiene practices, and the responsibilities that come with remote learning. Teens, much like adults, may have justified concerns about college, social events, and time away from their friends. Parents should remain attuned to their kids’ struggles, regardless of age, and work together with them to navigate these challenges.
Dr. Mitchell points out that children’s brains and bodies are more susceptible to stress than adults’, and they often lack the ability to articulate their feelings. Stress in kids may manifest differently than in adults, so parents should be vigilant for signs like stomach aches or sleep disturbances, which might indicate that a child needs support.
Creating a Supportive Environment
For parents seeking ways to support their children’s health during these stressful times, Dr. Mitchell emphasizes the importance of creating safe, stable, and nurturing environments. Such conditions can help protect children’s brains and bodies from the adverse effects of stress. Good health practices—like nutritious meals, regular exercise, adequate sleep, mindfulness, and social connections—are vital. Accessing mental health resources can also help mitigate stress.
It’s equally important for parents to prioritize their own well-being. Dr. Rivera cautions that children can sense their parents’ stress levels. Engaging in self-care and planning family activities can alleviate some of this stress. If parents find themselves struggling, reaching out to mental health professionals is crucial. Dr. Mitchell recommends referring to resources like the California Surgeon General’s Playbook for Stress Relief during COVID-19, underscoring, “Healthy kids stem from healthy caregivers.”
Post-Quarantine Considerations
What happens after quarantine ends? Dr. Rivera advises parents to remain aware that children may face challenges adjusting back to normal life. If a child shows signs of social anxiety, poor appetite, or other emotional distress, seeking professional help is essential. If a family has lost a loved one due to COVID-19 or witnessed severe illness, therapeutic support may be beneficial.
While it’s too early to assess the long-term effects of quarantine on children, proactive measures can help mitigate potential damage and teach healthy coping mechanisms. To delve deeper into this topic, check out our other blog post, which discusses strategies for maintaining mental wellness during challenging times.
Conclusion
In summary, as we navigate the complexities of the pandemic, recognizing the potential impact of quarantine on children’s mental health is vital. Creating a supportive environment and prioritizing self-care can help families weather this storm together.
Keyphrase: Quarantine and Adverse Childhood Experiences
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