Owing to the lockdown measures placed in the country due to COVID-19, many children are living in isolation – away from their friends, teachers, as well as relatives. Moreover, having to stay indoors has made matters worse. To protect your child’s mental health, you must recognise the signs of distress and psychological abuse.
Psychological or emotional abuse can significantly impact a person’s mental health and leave them feeling isolated, frightened, and alone. Mental health awareness is extremely essential today. That’s why it’s important to know how to react should you find your child in distress.
Types of mental health issues
When we talk about emotional or psychological abuse, it’s usually the result of incidents such as teasing, bullying, hostility or exposure to violence. If you wish to learn more about bullying and the various forms it can take, check out our helpful video.
Essentially, if a child is left feeling traumatised by the actions or words of another person – whether it’s at home, at a friend’s house, or on a social media platform – then they are a victim of emotional abuse.
How to nurture your child’s mental health?
The impact of emotional abuse is very harmful and can build up over time. This can potentially cause lasting effects on a child’s mental health, confidence, and self-esteem. That said, one-off incidents can cause harm, too. That’s why you must familiarise yourself with the signs of emotional abuse, so you can react appropriately and help support your child’s mental wellbeing.
The tell-tale signs of emotional abuse
Your child is looking for a reason not to be at home, school, or another particular place
Your child is finding it difficult to focus in class, and there’s a decline in the quality of his/her schoolwork
Your child’s behaviour has changed and may have become extreme – perhaps they have become disruptive and aggressive, or secretive and passive
Your child appears anxious, distressed or withdrawn, or is having trouble controlling his/her emotions
Your child expresses feelings of worthlessness or a sense of being unwanted or disliked
How to support a distressed child?
If you are concerned that something is wrong, try talking to your child. Tell them you want to help and listen carefully to what they have to say. Don’t forget to stress that the situation they have found themselves in is not their fault.
Reassure them that you are going to do everything you can to help. This might mean alerting teachers to what’s happening or arranging to meet with other parents whose kids may be experiencing the same feelings. The most important thing, however, is to create an environment where your child feels safe, supported, and cared for.
Mental health for kids
Charities like the Save the Children have useful online resources that can help you care for your child’s mental health. Young people may benefit from calling Snehi’s free helpline to talk through their experiences and receive information and advice.
Kids can experience a range of developmental and behavioural problems due to emotional abuse. Therefore, if you’re concerned, you should seek professional support. And remember, your family’s wellbeing is your number-one priority, so ensure everyone remains fighting fit at every age with health insurance.
