CHESAPEAKE, Va. — The sound of the final bell on the last day of school often means a sigh of relief for students. But mental health experts say summer break brings about new challenges for children of all ages.
As Mental Health Awareness Month ends, experts are sharing tips to support youth during the summer months.
Sharde O'Rourke, a licensed professional counselor, says the changes to their routine and environment can impact the mental health of a child.
When students get out of school, she says they can lose access to key support groups, like teachers and classmates.
"If they aren't involved with activities, they may be using electronics and loosing those interactions," she said. "It can be really traumatic for some kids, because [they're thinking] 'I'm not coming to school, or I don't have friends to hang out with on my block or that I can visit."'
And because teachers play such a pivotal role in a student's day-to-day life during the school year, O'Rourke says kids are also losing an emotional and psychological network of people.
O'Rourke also says students may experience less access to basic needs, like food, with many depending on schools to provide meals during the academic year.
"School is routine and all of that ends suddenly. Now each day might be unpredictable," said Dr. Traci Richards, Manager of Behavioral Health Services for Chesapeake Regional Healthcare.
Whether children admit it or not, Richards says they value structure.
"They like days to be predictable. They want structure," she said.
So, Richards said it's important for families to keep some form of routine when students are on break. Also, keep them active and spend quality time with them.
She also advises parents to look out for any changes in their child's demeanor, like any outbursts, and to maintain an open connection with their child and a team of support, including a primary care provider, therapist or loved ones.
Both experts say parents also experience a big shift in the summer and should take care of themselves, too! Because if the parents are not well, they say your kids will follow.