Colorado clinic director expects conflict in Ukraine to impact adult (and child) mental health more than we realize – CBS Denver
(CBS4) – As the crisis in Ukraine continues, experts say it is likely to affect our mental health more than we even care to believe.
Members of a territorial defense unit watch as a car approaches their barricade after curfew on the outskirts of eastern Kyiv on March 6 in Kyiv, Ukraine. Russia is continuing its assault on major Ukrainian cities, including the capital Kiev, more than a week after launching a full-scale invasion of the country. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images)
“It’s definitely going to have an impact on our health,” said Blake Fleet, clinical director of Chrysalis Continuing Care in Denver. “I know things like this that seem out of control, the feeling that the world is going to end, are definitely going to cause higher levels of depression.”
And this depression can be passed on to your child, because children feed on the emotions of adults. That’s why Fleet said self-care is key for parents and it’s encouraged to talk to your child about the ongoing war, especially if the child is his age.
“A child under 5, there’s really no reason to discuss this information,” Fleet said. “But as they get older, they’re probably going to be exposed to that anyway, so we’re having that conversation with them, with older kids, and kind of helping them understand and work through their feelings is hugely important. .”
Fleet told CBS4 that when parents approach conversation, they need to adapt the language and words to a level the child will understand.
“Let the child lead, ask ‘Have you heard what’s happening in Ukraine? Is this something you want to know more about? How do you feel about this? “, He said.
Fleet said there are many resources available to help with mental health issues like therapy and online services, but her big message for parents is to take care of themselves.
“We have to get help, reach out. The kids are going to feed off of us,” Fleet said. “So if they feel like we’re calm, relaxed and in control, they feel like they can do the same for themselves.”
The state of Colorado has a program called I Matter that offers three free counseling sessions for children ages 12-18.
Comments are closed.