Three million kids at risk of mental health problems due to Covid crisis – the nine signs to watch out for in your child

THREE million children in the UK are at risk of developing mental health problems due to the coronavirus pandemic, research has found.

With kids unable to go to school or see friends, nearly a third of parents say they’ve noticed a negative impact on their child’s mental wellbeing.

⚠️ Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates

In the survey of nearly 1,000 parents, it found that four in ten said they never talk about mental health with their children – suggesting there could be even more suffering in silence during the pandemic.

The Sun previously launched the You’re Not Alone campaign to raise awareness of mental health issues and encourage people to seek help. 

From bad moods to tantrums, what are the nine signs you need to watch out for?

1. Having suicidal or self-harm thoughts

Perhaps more of a direct clue, but if things get really bad, you might notice your child begins self-harming or cutting their skin.

You might not see the evidence of such action right away, but you might notice your child is covering up more or trying to hide their skin, which might be a sign of self-harming.

While there are some key warning signs to look out for, they can vary from child to child.

The research from healthcare provider Benenden Health found that there has been an increase in serious physical symptoms from children who are struggling to deal with their emotions because of the virus.

It found that five per cent of children had been grinding their teeth, a further five per cent losing hair and four per cent self-harming.

2. Bad mood that won’t go away

A child suffering mental health problems will begin to feel persistently down.

The research found that the biggest behavioural changes in children included them being increasingly agitated, moody or upset, with two-thirds displaying such signs.

Meanwhile, 42 per cent have been misbehaving more, while 38 per cent have bee crying more than usual, according to parents.

3. Low self-esteem

If your child talks about feeling guilty or worthless, it might be a sign that they’ve lost their confidence, which could be linked to a mental illness.

The NHS describes it this as feeling “empty or unable to feel emotions” or “numb”.

4. Tearful or emotional outbursts

Another key sign to look out for is anger and emotional outbursts.

These will be much bigger than the usual outburst a child might have when they are defying their parents.

The research found that 16 per cent of children were becoming agitated as they do not understand what is happening, their lack of understanding of the situation could make them feel hopeless, therefore inducing tears and crying.

5. Lack of concentration

As children are no longer attending lessons at school, it may be difficult for them to concentrate in a less regimented environment.

Most parents at home with their children are new to the concept of homeschooling and might not be able to spot when their child is struggling to concentrate if they have never observed them in an educational setting.

Some key signs to look out for is if your child is unable to make up their mind, or if they appear they don’t care about something and the consequences their actions may have.

The survey found that 11 per cent of children are reportedly more worried about missing out on education than their own health, with just five per cent saying this was a concern.

6. Lack of interest in fun things they used to love

Another sign is that they might lose interest in activities they used to enjoy.

For instance, if your child had a hobby and they have suddenly stopped doing it and don’t want to replace it with another activity.

7. Trouble sleeping 

Another really important sign to look for is if your child is having problems sleeping.

It might also be that they don’t want to get out of bed, or sleep in for hours longer than usual.

8. Feeling tired all the time

If your child seems unable to relax or is more lethargic than usual, this could be a clue that something isn’t quite right.

According to , being irritable or grumpy all the time may also be a tell-tale sign.

9. Eating less or binge eating

Any sudden change in your child’s eating habits might signal a mental health problem.

Some might even have physical symptoms, such as headaches and stomach aches, the NHS said.

has now provided a platform where parents an go to access help and advice.

Head matron Cheryl Lythgoe said it was “understandable” that the Covid-19 pandemic is having a significant impact on our physical and mental health, regardless of age.

“Children across the country are likely to have never experienced anything like this before and the disruption, uncertainty and change is shown to be taking its toll on their mental health, whether worrying about school work and exams, isolation from friends and family or being scared about their health or that of their loved ones.

“It is vitally important that during these difficult times, support is available to everyone – regardless of age or circumstance – and certainly for parents and children themselves.

“Taking the time now to talk, seek help and support each other can be crucial in getting through these challenging times together and promoting positive mental health for once we are out the other side.”