Five Tips to Help Teens Cope During the COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 does not discriminate based on age. A group that can easily be overlooked are teens, who are going through a transitional period towards becoming an adult. On a normal day, teens are navigating so many feelings, awkward social moments, and discovering who they are. Katie Singh, LCSW, Director,Outpatient Services, and a wife and mother, shares five tips parents can follow to help their teens navigate normal issues while dealing with a global pandemic.

Maintain a social network. Teens look to their friends and peers for entertainment. However, sporting events have been canceled, parties are put on hold, and hanging out at the mall is no longer an option. But it’s important for teens to maintain that connection through other means such as social media, phone calls, games or apps, and friendly virtual social competition.

Find new ways to celebrate milestones. Graduations and end-of-school year activities have been placed on hold, yet schools are working to creating a sense of normalcy. Girls are still wearing their prom dresses and posting pictures on social media. Parents are still putting graduation signs on their front yards. Celebration parades are also a fun way to help celebrate milestones.

Go outside. With weather improving, every member of the family should get out of the house at least once a day, especially teens. Some fresh air and change of scenery can recharge their “batteries” to help regain focus and inspiration. Going for a walk or sitting on the front step are just a couple of examples.

Implement a first...then...strategy. Teens can challenge themselves to stay focused on a task by giving themselves a little competition. If they first complete their math assignment, then they can get a reward, such as a snack or 15 minutes of screen time. This produces a sense of accomplishment and an eagerness to move onto the next assignment. By focusing on one thing at a time, teens can reduce anxiety and a sense of being overwhelmed.

Have family time. It’s normal for teens to spend a lot of time in their rooms, but with nowhere to go, they are spending even more time isolated from everyone. Parents should encourage teens to come out of their room occasionally, to a shared room for game nights or a family walk around the neighborhood.

If you notice a change in behavior, mood, appetite, or sleep for longer than a few days, call your pediatrician, 211, or Wheeler Clinic at 888.793.3500.