Many youth have sought counselling to express how the pandemic is affecting them, according to the Atlantic Wellness Centre.
Director of Clinical Services Danielle Whalen says there are a number of feelings, “Hopelessness, loneliness, feeling isolated, unmotivated, we are hearing a lot of that. Not sure how to how to navigate school and their lives, and not feeling connected.”
Whalen says they have seen an increase in discussions about suicide, “We are seeing an rise in suicidal ideations. Kids are reporting more conflict at home, conflict in shared spaces because everyone is cooped up at home.”
One of the big concerns is the transitions between phases, “Kids were feeling hopeful that we were in yellow, then orange and now we are in red. I think kids are really starting to feel the impacts.”
Some of the things they try and help the youth with, are coping skills, encouraging proper sleep and exercise.
Whalen says they are finding their current clients are seeking services more often during the pandemic.
The Atlantic Wellness Centre provides free access to mental healthcare for youth and young adults between the ages of 12 to 21 in Southeastern New Brunswick.
