Seasonal Changes and Mental Health

Fall is a time of transition for many. Moving from the summer and into the fall and winter months leads to a host of emotionally charged situations for individuals to navigate. From the lack of sunlight to the pressures of the holidays, many adults experience increases in feelings of anxiety and depression. However, these challenges are not limited to adults, as school-aged children are also navigating these seasonal changes, as well as new school routines, classes, peer groups and other situations. These experiences are an important part of growing up, even during a pandemic, but they can also bring significant emotional stress to some children. Managing behavioral health is incredibly important for young people, and understanding the available resources makes the job much easier for parents, guardians, and other caregivers. Employee benefits have an important role to play in this effort.

The New Normal

In 2021, the Kaiser Family Foundation took a wide-ranging look at the effects of the pandemic on the “normal” back to school routine. Among other things, they found that children’s “mental health service utilization declined amid elevated symptoms of depression, anxiety, and psychological stress.” Before the pandemic, 4% of children were already experiencing depression and 8% experienced anxiety, according to a previous study from the Kaiser Family Foundation. In addition to any increase in those rates among the general population of children, we know that the past two years have seen drastic reductions in the utilization of mental healthcare.
 

The Benefits of Care

Increasing the utilization of behavioral health benefits is a key step in supporting children and families amid acute or chronic mental health distress. Whether brought on by the stress of school, changes in the family, or other causes, treatment helps. To that end, employee benefits such as Employee Assistance programs, our Support Solution, and telemedicine are powerful tools for empowering children and families. Today, care is available immediately, regardless of age. Children and adults alike can access care through text-based interactions, voice notes, and other methods meant to increase access for patients who may not be receptive to face-to-face counseling. Understanding these tools is important, and we can help educate members so they can make the most of their benefits.
 
Connect with us to find out more about our behavioral health solutions, and how we can help clients share the message with their members.