Teens in UAE feel the coronavirus pandemic strain

Dubai - More than 80 percent of young people with a history of mental health problems said their condition has worsened.

The number of teenagers struggling with mental health issues as a result of the Covid-19 challenges has been on the rise in the UAE, according to psychologists.
The restrictions that were imposed by the government to contain the spread of Covid-19 have been tough for many teenagers - deprived of their friends as they can't go out for social gatherings, and worried about job prospects in a post-pandemic economy.
Psychologists said without the normal routine and structure of school and college attendance, teenagers have been starved of some of the support and reassurance they are accustomed to as they grow in emotional maturity and approach adulthood.
These circumstances can leave them feeling overwhelmed, damaging their self-confidence and motivation.
Tanya Dharamshi, clinical director and counselling psychologist at Priory Wellbeing Centre, Dubai, said she had witnessed an upsurge in teenagers struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) since the lockdown began and schooling went online.
A recent survey revealed how more than 80 per cent of young people with a history of mental health problems say their condition has worsened since the pandemic started.
Dharamshi urged parents to engage in regular, reassuring conversations with their teenage children to help support their mental wellbeing. "For many teenagers, life has completely turned upside down. Even with the gradual lifting of restrictions, their situation remains unchanged," she said. "They have had to contend with home-learning, isolation from their friends, cancellation of 'major' events in their calendars such as the school prom, graduation ceremonies, and launching themselves into the job market."
Many may be feeling they have been 'robbed' of a key and monumental time in their lives as they progress to adulthood. This is a crucial time in their development into fully rounded adults and so it's only natural that many are struggling to accept and adapt to such an abrupt 'end' to the academic year.
"Many teens may also be dealing with the illness directly if a family member has been affected, or if their families have lost income as a result of job cuts or salary reductions."
Teenage is a difficult time 
Dr Mohamed Yousaf, specialist psychiatrist, Aster Clinic, Al Muteena, said mental illness is common among teens, given the present scenario. "Teenage is a difficult time for both parents and the children. And our current situation can make it worse for the teens," said Yousaf. 
"It is their age of exploring the world and making new friends and learning life lessons. This uncertainty of future can cause a lot of mental tension in everyone and in teens specially. It is very natural to worry about your future, your studies, your aspirations, your dreams etc."
He explained that teens can experience mood swings, behaviour changes, physical changes etc. "A talkative and friendly teen suddenly turns a loner. Change in eating and sleeping habits. Feeing agitation and anger are few symptoms of mental illness," said Yousaf, adding that parents should pay attention to their teens and watch out for any extreme changes. "Seek professional help if you see a drastic change in their behaviour. A few counselling sessions can help the teens beat the blues."
The psychiatrist also advised parents to avoid undue criticism and comparisons because it can cause stress and affect the child's self-esteem.
For Dr Laila Mohamadien, specialist psychiatrist at Medcare Hospital Sharjah, said teenage is the age of maximum ambition to socialise and communicate with others to reach self-integration and develop as a mature adult.
"The teen brain is compelled to seek out new experiences that help the brain learn, develop and mature. Experiences come from interacting and communicating with others and learning by socialisation," she said.
"And now with the uncertainties about the future, change of education system - study at home and no exams or online exams -children miss their social life."
According to psychologists, there is a huge amount of anxiety, stress, disappointment, anger, resentment and grief among teenagers right now. The teenagers need support to define and manoeuvre their thoughts, emotions and behavioural responses.
How teenagers can cope:
- Maintain a daily routine with consistent sleep, activity and study patterns
- Stay connected with others, and try to find moments of humour
- Talk to people you feel comfortable with about your feelings or worries
- Eat breakfast every morning, plus snacks and meals at regular times
- Limit coffee or energy drinks to cuts feelings of anxiety
- Limit the amount of time you spend talking about Covid-19
- Do hobbies or activities that you enjoy and calm you down


ismail@khaleejtimes.com