In this together

In this together

In this week’s In This Together, our Director of Pastoral Care writes about the wellbeing impacts of the pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a clear impact on everyone, but particularly on our young people. No doubt there are conversations happening in your homes about being in lockdown again; worries about friendships and relationships, disappointments that are being felt, and bouts of anger, worry or fear. But I am sure there are also many positives, too. I know that when I speak to my Year 9 class on zoom, they always have lovely stories to share about “lockdown life” and how they are trying to make the most of each day.

When things in our life feel out of control it is human nature to seek ways to manage what we can. People might see the opportunities and feel a sense of control by focusing on the positives, or creating new routines, but they might also choose more destructive ways to gain a sense of control.

One thing that we do know is that there has been a sharp increase in anxiety and depression in young people, and maladaptive coping strategies such as self-harm, substance use and disordered eating. This is in no way meant to be alarmist or frightening, but we do want parents to be aware of what is happening for young people nationwide, but also the things that they might be sharing and talking about with each other. Regular conversations with your daughter about how she is feeling, appropriate boundaries with friends, and positive ways to manage the changes and uncertainty of living in this pandemic, will help your daughter to see that you care and that you are there to listen to her experiences. We would also encourage you to be conscious of any changes you notice. For any change in behaviour or mood, always pay attention to intensity, duration and frequency.

It is particularly important to be aware of changes in your daughter’s appetite, weight, eating habits or exercise routines. For example, an increase in the amount of exercise a young person is doing can be very positive, and when we are spending so much time on screens it is important to balance this with a healthy amount of exercise. But if the focus becomes excessive or obsessive, then this may be an indication that something else may be happening. We would also encourage you to seek advice from your GP if you do feel worried.

We do know that simply eating regular meals as a family is a key protective factor. This is something that, due to the pandemic, is able to be achieved and prioritised. There are things you can do to make this a really lovely time too:

  • Sit and have breakfast together every day so that you know that everyone in your family has started the day with a healthy meal. This also helps you to check in with your daughter, see how she is feeling, and making sure she is ready for the day ahead.
  • Have a family cooking competition. Get into teams or be your own ‘Master Chefs’!
  • Create a restaurant at home or have theme nights.
  • Play a game at the end of dinner, rather than moving off to do your own thing.
  • Remove all devices and distractions.

And please share what you are doing with each other- you are your best resources!

We are thinking of you all and know that things are not easy at the moment in so many ways. But, despite the distance, we are still here to help and support you.

Some resources you might find helpful:

 

Bethany Lord
Director of Pastoral Care