Six ways COVID-19 may be impacting your child’s mental health
Our lives are nearly unrecognizable amid the pandemic. It is no wonder that we are seeing increases in symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as in suicidal and self-harming behaviors. Here are some specific ways COVID-19 may be affecting mental health – and what you can do to support your family.

Ten tips to help kids return to virtual school
While many children are starting the school year in a distance learning model, no one knows for sure what kinds of changes might take place in the future. Children and parents alike can feel frustrated or scared about the transition and the uncertainty of this time. CHOC experts offer 10 tips to help kids transition back to virtual school and prepare for the uncertainty of the future.

Loss of pet can trigger pediatric mental health issues
The death of a pet may lead to significant psychological distress for a child, according to a recent study. Researchers discovered that a child’s strong emotional attachment to a pet may result in profound and prolonged grief for as long as three years or more after the loss of a beloved pet. The study underscored the importance of adults in recognizing and addressing the psychological impact on children.

How to support children’s emotional safety
As communities navigate through re-opening efforts after shelter-in-place orders, it’s natural for adults and children to have mixed emotions about what is to come. Children will look to the adults in their lives for support and guidance on how to react to this new transition, and whether they will continue to remain safe once they are away from the safety of their home. CHOC psychologist Dr. Sheila Modir shares ways parents can boost their children’s sense of emotional safety.

Community resources for mental health
CHOC has compiled this guide to help families find community mental health resources.