STONY BROOK, N.Y. (WCBS 880) — A study by a doctor at Stony Brook University has found that 40,000 children have lost a parent because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Dr. Rachel Kidman headed the study which showed 40,000 children under the age of 18 nationwide have lost a parent to COVID-19.
She says many children and families are suffering from the loss and says the isolation of the pandemic may be affecting how they process trauma.
“Right now, many families are grieving in isolation. It's a very unique time to experience bereavement and I don't think we actually know how that's going to affect the process of grieving and the outcomes across our life course,” Dr. Kidman said. “I think it'll be very interesting and important to follow many of these children to see what their emerging needs are.”
The Stony Brook University doctor says it may help children to return to school for full-time, in-person learning.
“The children need support. Right these children need schools to be open so they can socialize with their friends at access support from teachers and counselors,” Dr. Kidman said.
She notes past studies have revealed that children who lost a parent are more likely to be depressed, attempt suicide and are less likely to finish high school.
“From past studies, we certainly know that children who have lost a parent face immense challenges from depression to poor educational outcomes – they’re less likely to finish school – higher rates of suicidality, so these kinds of impacts reverberate throughout their lives,” she said.
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