How to support children during the H1N1 pandemic

Guest Column - There are messages being presented everywhere about the H1N1 pandemic lately. These messages are not upsetting to some people, however, they create significant emotional responses in others-this is true for children also.

Although children are considered to be resilient, they too can experience worry, anxiety, fear and lowered mood when they are faced with a potential threat. For younger children, the pandemic could be more upsetting due to their lack of understanding of what is really happening. It is important to support children's understanding of their environment and reassure them during this difficult time.

Note Signs of Stress

Children respond to stress in different ways. The following are some behavioral changes to look for during this time: sleeping too much or too little; being tired all the time; staying in their room and avoiding others; talking less; poor grades; lack of attention at school or at home; appetite changes; arguing or fighting with peers; feeling sad or anxious; acting out; asking to be closer to you more than usual; showing fear to be left alone in social settings.

If a child is showing any of the behaviors listed above, it is important to remember that they are having a normal reaction to an abnormal event, and sharing this message with them can be helpful in supporting their emotional well being.

Talk to your child

Talk to your child about H1N1 and give them the facts on how it is spread, the symptoms people can experience if they contract the virus, and the support that is available if that were to happen. Providing children with your family's plan of action will reduce the fear of not knowing what's going on. It will also give them comfort to know that you are working as a team to take care of one another.

Maintain routine

Maintain as much of your child's normal routine as possible. Ensuring meals, bedtimes and other ritual events are happening during regular timeframes will keep a sense of normalcy within the day. To compensate for changes in the routine due to cancellation of extra-curricular events, you can increase the amount of family interaction through crafts, board games, puzzles etc. so they are still able to engage in interactive play. Being socially connected as much as possible is important for children, because like adults, they need support from their friends and can experience increases in anxiety, fear and lowered mood if they don't have that form of interaction.

Provide a healthy lifestyle

Support your child in healthy eating, daily exercise, relaxation and proper rest. Offer healthy snacks and beverages and engage them in activity like walks outside or indoor physical games like dance parties, musical chairs, statues, or interactive video games. For relaxation, offer evening baths, read books, and family cuddles or talks. For very young children, try physical touch like rubbing their backs or legs as a way to ease their energy levels. Ensure that bedtime is a comforting routine as possible to support their ability to rest.

For help

It is important to know that you are not alone in supporting your child through the H1N1 pandemic. Staying in touch with teachers, daycare workers, guidance counselors, family and friends is an effective way to engage support for your child. Also, if you have any questions or concerns, contact call your local Mental Health and Addictions office or the Mental Health Crisis Line at 1-888-737-4668.

Prepared by Irene Barrett, Regional Mental Health Promotion Consultant, Western Health