How Covid is impacting children’s mental health

Unfortunately many of our children and young people across Northern Ireland are experiencing mental health problems and waiting lists for mental health services were already far too long before the start of this public health crisis.

The current lockdown arrangements, the disruption to routines and structures, and the general levels of anxiety relating to Covid-19 are likely to exacerbate existing mental health problems further. Again, it is critical that children, young people and their families are encouraged to reach out to mental health and emotional well-being services, which are continuing to operate.

It is important these services are strengthened and resources are made available to provide support to children and young people with existing mental health issues as well as those for whom issues have emerged during this stressful and uncertain time.

• You can read more about our work on children and young people’s mental health here