Supporting Teens' Mental Health Post-Pandemic: Insights from Dr. Sara Polley
I hope and I wish for your child that at The End End of this pandemic- whatever that means right, your child going back to school, that things for them will go back to normal, but there's a good chance that they won't go back to normal and that your child may still struggle.
The pandemic has been a challenging time for everyone, but it's hit young people especially hard. In this episode of 'Let's Talk Addiction & Recovery', host William C. Moyers chats with Dr. Sara Polley about the unique mental health struggles faced by teens during these unprecedented times. Imagine being a teenager, stuck at home, cut off from friends, school activities, and hobbies – it's a recipe for stress and anxiety. Dr.
Polley dives into the specific issues young people have faced, such as academic setbacks, disrupted sleep patterns, and even increased substance use. She doesn’t just stop at identifying the problems; she offers practical advice for adults looking to support the young people in their lives. One key takeaway? Communication is crucial. Dr. Polley encourages parents to keep an eye on their children's social media use as a way to open up conversations about their feelings and experiences.
And if things get really tough, she suggests seeking professional help – there are plenty of outpatient resources available that can make a big difference. But the conversation doesn't end with the pandemic. Dr. Polley reminds us that even as life returns to normal, the mental health impacts on young people will linger. It's up to adults to stay vigilant and supportive.
Tune in to hear more about how you can help the teens in your life navigate these tough times.