STORY AT-A-GLANCE
- COVID-19 is uncommon in children, who typically have milder symptoms and better prognoses than adults. However, the psychological trauma they experience because of the pandemic is much worse
- Data show that children may make more suicide attempts and intentionally injure themselves; they may exhibit clinginess, irritability, inattention, nightmares and sleeping disorders
- Social distancing, lockdowns and parental stress increase their risk of reduced physical activity, maltreatment and food insecurity, which raises their risk of heart disease and obesity as adults
- Loneliness can worsen the effects of social isolation, which some are attempting to solve with a pill. Consider using Emotional Freedom Techniques to help reduce stress and improve your ability to support others