As the Children are returning to the classroom, will this in itself be enough? Cold facts, suicide, self harm, depression, anxiety are real problems here in Canada. What is also a real problem is not accepting that this will have long term consequences. I am frustrated at the political spin doctors telling us about the resilience of youth. The data being published does not support the theory that youth are resilient and history has never shown this to be true either. People are scarred for life from dramatic changes, famine, environmental disaster, war, terrorism, bullying etc. We all realize that they will not just snap back into the program just because the political pundits tell us so.
Getting back to school is only one
aspect of life that we need to get back together. The current
masked, physical distant schooling we cannot control. It will be a
long time before this will change. Opening up will allow such relief
to many families. Income will put food on the table and get the
bills paid. The reduction in anxiety for the whole family as the
adults return to work just has to create a better environment for the
children.
Just today, the BBC World News service
published a piece on suicide in Japan. Highlighted was that
historically the suicide rate increased with business and the economy
problems. The rate was normally significantly higher in men. Now
during the pandemic, the increase has been dominated by young women.
Social isolation, loneliness, unemployment, feeling inadequate at the
loss of a relative to the pandemic all play a part.
(https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-55837160)
For me, balance is key. On one side,
I cannot let the situation, restrictions, politicians become so large
in my day that it overbalances my life. I limit my news intake as
there is nothing in my control here and take charge of the things
that I can control. I continue to make plans for the future. I make
sure that today I schedule goals for tomorrow. I learn a new skill
everyday no matter how small and just keep moving forward. Never
have I been more conscious that our children are watching. I want to
be strong enough for those around me.
Let me know what tips you have to get
through a difficult day.