Loading
“The surge in cases was for all children from all backgrounds but particularly prominent part children from more affluent backgrounds,” said Dr Lingam, who noted researchers looked at patient residential postcodes to analyse presentations across socioeconomic groups. “This may be because fewer children from poorer areas are accessing services, however data from local GPs is needed to better understand this.”
Dr Katherine Knight from the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network said mental health presentations started to rise in mid-2020 and there is “an expectation they will continue in the months following [this year’s] Delta wave.”
“As school has gone back in past two weeks we think we will see a rise in presentations over the next few months because it is a huge change in routine for everyone. Big change can be a huge source of stress, and this includes stress about peers and academics as children try and get back into a routine.”
Dr Knight said, while there was an expectation that young people who seek mental health support are from disadvantaged backgrounds, “vulnerability is not isolated it can occur across the spectrum.”
“We have seen increases in young people presenting to emergency for self-harm, suicidal ideation, eating disorders and for complex developmental issues, which includes exhausted parents who are dealing with prolonged school closures. Emergency departments have stayed open where many mental health services have gone online.”
Professor Lingam said the study showed the immense need for integrated mental health services and community mental health support.
“Post-pandemic we are probably going to see even higher numbers and a surge in mental health needs. Clinically we are seeing a lot of anxiety, depression and eating disorders, there is a lot of internalising behaviour going on.”
But Eva Alisic, an associate professor in child trauma and recovery at the University of Melbourne, said that, while it was positive that many people were accessing services, there were concerns about the barriers for those who may not be presenting to hospitals.
“We need to reduce stigma, make sure there are enough community services because there are always young people falling through the cracks,” said Dr Alisic.
“But kids are really resilient, and I’m optimistic about the long term. I think children will come through it but at the same time we really need to be there for those who do need support, and they need to feel comfortable about reaching out.
Stay across the most crucial developments related to the pandemic with the Coronavirus Update. Sign up to receive the weekly newsletter.
Teen girls drive mental health hospital visits post-lockdown
Source: Philippines Alive
