Remember those endless days of Zoom school, cancelled sports seasons, and postponed birthday parties? Yeah, the pandemic was rough, especially for our teens. While we're all breathing a sigh of relief and getting back to "normal," it's important to remember that COVID-19 left its mark.
Behind those brave faces, many teens are still dealing with the emotional fallout of a truly disruptive period in their lives. A recent poll by C.S. Mott Children's Hospital revealed that nearly half of parents noticed new or worsening mental health issues in their teens during the pandemic – things like anxiety, depression, and difficulty socializing.
And sadly, teen girls seemed to be particularly affected. So, what can we do to help our teens bounce back and rediscover their joy? Keep reading, because we've got some ideas...
A recent poll by C.S. Mott Children's Hospital showed that nearly half of parents noticed new or worsening mental health issues in their teens during that time. Things like anxiety, depression, and difficulty with social interactions were all reported by parents. And guess what? Teen girls seemed to be hit even harder than boys.
Take a moment to think about your own teen:
- Have you noticed changes in their mood or behavior?
- Are they less interested in things they used to enjoy?
- Do they seem withdrawn or have trouble connecting with friends?
- Are they struggling with sleep or appetite changes?
These could be signs that your teen might need some extra support.
So, what can we do to help our teens bounce back? Well, that's where summer camp comes in!
Think about it: camp is the perfect antidote to the isolation and stress of the pandemic. It's a chance for kids to:
- Reconnect with nature: Being outdoors has been shown to do wonders for mental health.
- Build social skills: Camp is all about making new friends and learning how to navigate social situations.
- Develop independence: Being away from home (in a safe and supportive environment) helps teens gain confidence and a sense of responsibility.
- Just have fun! Let's be honest, after the past few years, our teens deserve a good dose of fun and laughter.
If you're looking for a way to help your teen thrive after the challenges of the pandemic, summer camp could be just the ticket. Check out our database for some awesome camp recommendations and activity ideas right here!
