2023-07-07 12:00:00
According to a recent study conducted by the DREES, nearly one in six children needed mental health care between March 2020 and July 2021 in France. The restrictions linked to the Covid-19 pandemic have led to a marked increase in psychological distress among the youngest, with a particularly marked impact among adolescent girls and young women.
Several factors are linked to the psychosocial difficulties encountered by children
Among the elements that explain this situation, there is the mental health of the parents, which plays a key role. Children whose parents suffer from anxiety-depressive syndromes or who have low social support are more likely to face psychological problems. Furthermore, the time spent in front of screens and the lack of activities such as reading and sports activities are also important determinants of psychosocial difficulties.
According to parents’ testimonies, approximately one in eight children is affected by psychosocial problems, such as emotional problems, difficulty concentrating, behavioral problems or difficulties in relating to others and learning.
Among these children, 12% have consulted a health professional for psychological difficulties since the start of the pandemic. Psychologists are the main professionals consulted, while psychiatrists and child psychiatrists are consulted by a minority of children. It is interesting to note that families with a higher level of education tend to seek more care.
Children from disadvantaged classes more affected by mental health disorders
It is also important to emphasize that psychosocial difficulties affect more households with the lowest living standards. Relationship and behavioral problems are particularly present among parents who belong to less privileged social classes. Surprisingly, children from single-parent families tend to seek care more frequently to deal with their psychological problems.
Reading and physical activity play a vital role in maintaining children’s mental health
Prolonged exposure to screens is associated with relationship and behavioral problems in children, while regular reading and physical activity appear to contribute to better mental health. It is therefore essential to encourage children to diversify their activities and limit their screen time.
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