As we look back on the past few years, it’s clear that the pandemic has left lasting effects on all of us. But for our young people, the emotional toll has been particularly profound. They’ve experienced disruptions in their education, isolation from their friends, and uncertainty about their future. And while we’re now transitioning back to a more normal way of life, many of our youth are still carrying the weight of that stress and anxiety.
The question is—are we paying close enough attention?
For some, it might seem like life has returned to normal, but for many young people, the emotional aftershocks of the pandemic are still present. They may be feeling disconnected, struggling to rebuild their social lives, or grappling with anxiety about the future. As we shift our focus to recovery, we need to remember that healing from emotional trauma doesn’t happen overnight.
You might notice your child is more withdrawn, spending more time alone, or maybe they’ve lost interest in things they used to enjoy. They could be feeling overwhelmed by the expectations of ‘getting back to normal,’ when inside, they’re still processing what they’ve been through. It’s crucial to understand that these aren’t just temporary feelings—they could be signs of deeper emotional struggles.
As a community, as families, and as friends, we need to create space for these conversations. One of the most important things we can do is ask, ‘How are you really feeling?’ And when we ask that question, we have to be prepared to listen—without judgment, without rushing to fix things. Just listen.
And yes, sometimes the conversation might touch on something uncomfortable, like suicide or self-harm. But I want to be clear: talking about suicide does not increase the risk. In fact, asking directly if someone is thinking about suicide can lower their sense of isolation and encourage them to open up. If we avoid these conversations because they’re difficult, we’re missing the chance to help.
But it’s not just about conversations—it’s about recognizing that our young people need our support in rebuilding their lives. They’ve missed out on important social connections, and some may feel left behind. As we help them reintegrate, we need to encourage healthy routines—whether it’s exercise, creative outlets, or simply spending time with family and friends. Small steps can make a big difference.
For some young people, professional help might be the most effective path forward in the context of youth suicide prevention. Therapy or counseling can provide them with the tools they need to manage their emotions and develop healthy coping strategies. We should never hesitate to reach out for that support when it’s needed, and we should encourage our children to see it as a strength, not a weakness.
Finally, I want to remind everyone that this is not just an issue for families. It’s an issue for all of us. Whether you’re a teacher, a coach, a friend, or a neighbor—you have the ability to make a difference. We can all be part of creating an environment where our youth feel safe, heard, and supported.
The emotional scars of the pandemic won’t disappear overnight, but by staying engaged, showing compassion, and offering support, we can help our young people move forward with hope and resilience. Let’s make sure that no one feels alone in their struggles. Together, we can make sure that our youth feel supported and understood.
Take Care of Each Other,
- Dr Hurt
If you or someone you know is in need of help, there are resources available. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 is always there to listen, and trained professionals can provide guidance.
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