PERRY COUNTY, Ky. (WYMT) – School is out for the summer for many students throughout the Commonwealth, but health experts say the break could impact children’s mood.
With more freedom, less routine and an increase in screen time, mental health professionals say some kids and teens may struggle with the transition.
“There can definitely be an increase in anxiety, depressive symptoms, in 18 and older, and also younger. We can even see that in pretty young children as well, as well as adolescents in the summertime,” said Ayme Thomas, a family and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Primary Care Center of EKY in Whitesburg.
Mental health professionals say when sleep schedules shift, friends are harder to see and screen time is amplified, it can add up, impacting mood, stress and even how connected kids feel.
“The increased screen time, sometimes that decreases our ability to think as creative as what we would normally be able to think as far as that social interaction and then rather than, you know, that direct interaction with others,” Thomas said.
Experts say parents can help by keeping things simple: a consistent sleep schedule, clear limits on screens and small daily responsibilities to keep kids grounded.
“I encourage them to do a few more chores around the house. Get a good schedule as far as that and limit time as far as screen time and make sure they’re not getting in too many hours on that. And I think one of the biggest things is to make sure that we’re being supportive as parents,” Thomas said.
Limiting screen time and replacing it with something offline, like a new hobby, time outside or community activities, can also help keep kids engaged through the summer.
“Reaching out to local committees that there are summer programs that they have with the school system. Sometimes there are enrichment camps at different locations. The local library sometimes offer different programs for kids and just kind of reaching out to see what those activities are,” Thomas said.
If you notice your child withdrawing, sleeping much more or much less, or seeming hopeless, experts say do not wait — reach out to a professional for help.
Officials also add that allowing older kids to spend time with their friends and scheduling play dates for younger children can help them feel connected during summer break.
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