Mental health problems or disorders in children and adolescents are becoming an increasingly worrisome issue. These disorders not only affect emotions and thoughts, but also impact children's social lives, education, and overall well-being. Raising awareness of mental health among the younger generation helps identify this problem earlier, but also reflects the reality that more and more children are experiencing mental health issues. In this article, we will explore what mental disorders are, their symptoms, and how to address them.
What is Mental Disorder?
Mental disorders are health conditions that affect a person's mood, thinking, and behavior. In children, these disorders can manifest in various forms, such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The causes of mental disorders can vary widely, including genetic factors, social pressure, trauma, and excessive use of technology.
According to a mental health survey conducted in Indonesia, one in three teenagers in the country experience mental health problems. This indicates that many children and teenagers may be struggling with emotional problems that require serious attention.
Factors Causing Children to Experience Mental Disorders
The Influence of Social Media
Social media has become an integral part of children's lives. Unfortunately, excessive and unwise use can lead to various problems, such as feelings of inferiority, anxiety, and even depression. Children often compare themselves to others on social media who only show the positive aspects of their lives, creating psychological pressure to strive for a "perfect" image.
Academic and Social Pressure
Increasing academic demands, fierce competition, and pressure from the social environment are factors that can negatively impact children's mental health. Many children feel burdened by excessive expectations, both from themselves and from their parents and the surrounding community.
Pandemic and Social Isolation
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the mental health challenges faced by the younger generation. Restrictions on social interaction, economic uncertainty, and the constant news of loss and grief during the pandemic have had a significant negative impact on mental health.
Excessive Use of Technology
Generation Z is the first generation to grow up with digital technology from a young age. While technology provides many benefits, excessive use can lead to mental health issues. Children who spend too much time in front of screens are more likely to experience sleep disorders, anxiety, and behavioral problems.
Symptoms of Mental Disorders in Children
Symptoms of mental disorders in children are often not easy to recognize. However, there are some common signs that can be indicators of mental health problems:
Extreme Mood Swings: A child who experiences sudden and prolonged periods of sadness, anger, or anxiety may be dealing with a mental health issue.
Difficulty Focusing: Children who struggle to concentrate or complete schoolwork may be showing signs of anxiety or ADHD.
Decreased Social Behavior: Children who typically engage socially but suddenly withdraw from friends or family may be experiencing depression or anxiety.
Changes in Eating and Sleep Patterns: Disturbed sleep patterns such as insomnia or excessive sleeping, as well as significant changes in eating habits, can be indicators of depression or anxiety.
How to Handle Mental Disorders in Children
Dealing with mental health issues in children requires a comprehensive approach, involving support from parents, schools, and health professionals if necessary. Here are some steps that can be taken:
Increasing Awareness and Communication
Parents and teachers should be more sensitive to signs of mental health problems in children. Opening good lines of communication and being willing to listen, where children will feel safe and comfortable to talk about their feelings, is very important to detect problems early on.
Limiting the Use of Social Media and Technology
Although technology and social media have become an important part of our lives today, especially for children and adolescents, limiting the time spent using electronic devices can help reduce their negative impact on mental health.
Therapy and Counseling
If symptoms of mental disorders have begun to appear, it is important to immediately seek professional help. Psychological counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective method to help children overcome anxiety, depression, or other disorders.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Children need to feel supported by their surroundings. Creating an open, loving, and non-judgmental atmosphere can help children feel safer and more comfortable in facing emotional challenges.
Mental health issues in children cannot be ignored. With the growing pressures from social media, academic demands, and the impact of the pandemic, children are increasingly vulnerable to mental health problems. Addressing this issue requires collaboration from various parties, including parents, teachers, and health professionals. Early detection and proper support can help children grow into mentally and physically healthy individuals. Let's take care of our mental health and that of our loved ones to create a healthy and peaceful environment.
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