EVIDENCE-BASED PEDIATRIC COPING STRATEGIES FOR THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

While minimally susceptible to COVID-19, the pediatric population is most vulnerable to the psychosocial repercussions of this pandemic as they have faced setbacks and struggle to maintain normality in nearly every aspect of their lives. Duration of quarantine, fear of infection, limited social interaction, and more have had a significant positive correlation with poorer mental health, PTSD, anxiety, and anger. Young people have been burdened mentally and emotionally by the stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic. They have been thrown off their regular course and expected to quickly adapt to new parameters, restrictions, and limitations. The pandemic has undoubtedly had a significant impact on shaping their childhood trajectory as it has interrupted regular milestones and life checkoffs. In an aim to heal and ameliorate COVID-related anxiety, stress, and negative mental health consequences, utilization of appropriate coping strategies is encouraged and particularly important for disadvantaged groups who report multiple obstacles to pursuing treatment for mental health issues.