CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- It has been six months since the COVID-19 pandemic forced many people to work and learn from home.
Even though the stay-at-home order has been lifted and some schools have resumed in-person instruction, the ever-present threat of coronavirus has been a source of stress and anxiety.
Doctors said kids are fairly resilient, and they can roll along with whatever life throws their way. But they are aware of what's going on around them. They are trying to deal with new rules regarding masks and social distancing. Play dates and other fun activities are different. They also absorb whatever stress and anxiety their parents are expressing.
"Constantly having headaches, they are not having really good sleep, they may be complaining of stomach aches, all of a sudden, or they just don't look like their usual self," said Dr. Sadhana Dharmapuri, interim Division Chief for Adolescent Medicine at Stroger Hospital.
She said parents should ask their kids to talk about their feelings because they will express what's on their mind.
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She added that physical activity is important.
"You definitely want them to exercise. Go out and do some fun activities. But also be safe when they are doing it, of course, using masks and social distancing," Dr. Dharmapuri said.
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She said if things get too stressful, there's nothing wrong with asking for professional help.
"There are mental health services. Reaching out to your pediatrician, asking them for psychological support would be really great," Dr. Dharmapuri said.