Trends: Anxiety and Depression

Written By Hanja Fourie

“There is a silent tragedy in our homes”

By: Psychiatrist Luis Rojas Marcos

There is a silent tragedy that is developing today in our homes and affecting our most beloved ones: our children. Our children are in a devastating emotional state! Over the last 15 years, researchers have given us more and more news about the epidemics:

  • 1 in 5 children are diagnosed with mental health problems

  • There has been a 43% ADHD increase observed

  • There has been a 37% increase in adolescent depression

  • A 200% increase in suicide rates has been observed in children aged 10 to 14 years

What is happening and what are we doing wrong? Children today are being stimulated with material objects, but they are deprived of the basic concepts of a healthy childhood, such as:

  • Emotionally available parents

  • Clearly defined limits

  • Responsibilities

  • Balanced nutrition and adequate sleep

  • Movement in general, but especially in open air

  • Creative play, social interaction, unstructured gaming opportunities, and boredom spaces

Speak to a paediatrician if your child presents with any of the aforementioned symptoms. Let’s work together to end the tragedy of childhood depression, suicide, and mental health issues.

Hanja Fourie
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