A group from the National Center for Child Health and Development conducted a questionnaire survey on the effects of the epidemic of the new coronavirus on children's minds, and found that about 15% or more of children in the fourth grade and above showed symptoms of depression. The results are summarized.
The survey, conducted by a group at the National Center for Child Health and Development via the Internet to investigate the psychological effects of the new coronavirus, has resulted in more than 4,600 children and parents in about a month and a half since November last year. Answered.
The survey asked fourth graders and above about their state of mind over the past seven days, including depression and interest in things, using a scale that examines the symptoms of depression in children.
As a result,
▽ 15% of elementary school students
▽ 24% of junior high school students
▽ 30% of high school students had
moderate or higher depressive symptoms.
It is said that the cause of depressive symptoms could not be verified, but the group has been affected by changes in school and life due to the new coronavirus, as voices of anxiety about the new coronavirus have been received through the survey. There is a possibility.
Dr. Mayumi Hanya of the National Center for Children's Development and Medical Care, who conducted the survey, said, "Since children cannot express their mood well, depressive symptoms may appear in physical symptoms and behaviors such as school refusal. Without denying it, it may be necessary to consult an expert in some cases. "