The COVID-19 pandemic is creating challenges and increased stress levels for children, says Child Health Support Service Manager (CHSS) Karen Meadows-Taurua.
Everyday life has been impacted, including changes to many comforting routines such as school and socialising with friends. Karen says change and uncertainty can increase stress or anxiety in children, including those as young as pre-schoolers, and create behavioural or emotional issues.
General practices can refer whānau needing support around behaviour, social and emotional difficulties to the CHSS. Once a referral is received, CHSS makes contact with the family and book a time for a consultation – which can be in person or virtual – where a CHSS support worker will get an understanding of what is going on, and offer tips, resources and guidance for further support in the community if required.
