Doctor concerned about children who have 'lost contact' during school closures

The transcript discusses the varied impacts of the pandemic on children and young people, highlighting relief for some and struggles for others, especially those with autism or social anxieties. It emphasizes concerns about children who have lost contact with support systems and the need for reliable data on mental health impacts. The return to school has been challenging, particularly in deprived areas, with significant variability in experiences. The transcript calls for government action to address these issues and plan for future support, focusing on both education and mental health.

What is one reason some children found relief in not attending school during the pandemic?

• They disliked their teachers.

• They could sleep in longer.

• They struggled with social anxieties.

• They had more time for hobbies.

What did the prevalence study reveal about mental health issues among children during the pandemic?

• They were not affected by the pandemic.

• They decreased from one in six to one in nine.

• They remained the same.

• They increased from one in nine to one in six.

How did the pandemic's impact vary across different regions?

• It was the same everywhere.

• It was worse in areas with low virus prevalence.

• It was more severe in highly deprived areas.

• It only affected urban areas.

What is a significant challenge faced by parents during the pandemic?

• Attending school meetings.

• Traveling for work.

• Balancing work and caring for children at home.

• Finding new schools for their children.

What does the speaker suggest the government should do to support children and young people?

• Increase school hours.

• Form a task force focused on their needs.

• Provide free meals to all students.

• Reduce the number of school subjects.