Student Anxiety Over Returning To School Amid COVID Leads To Uptick In NJ Parent Calls

NEW JERSEY — "It is OK, not to be OK," Governor Phil Murphy stressed on Wednesday as he reported the state is receiving an uptick in calls from New Jersey parents concerned about mental health issues in their children associated with the COVID pandemic and returning to school.

"We know that numerous children and families continue to live under tremendous stress caused by the past 19 months," said Murphy during a news conference.

The New Jersey Department of Children and Families has reported seeing a recent increase in the number of calls to the children's system of care hotline.

"These calls are covering a whole host of mental health issues and triggers but unsurprisingly many of these calls are coming early in the morning from parents concerned about signs of stress their kids are exhibiting as they prepare for their school day," said Murphy.

Comparing the call volume for the first few weeks in September 2021 to the same time period in 2020 there has been a 30 percent increase, according to Commissioner of NJ Department of Children and Families Christine Norbut Beyer.

"We are seeing more calls in the morning for an increase in school refusal or avoidant behavior," said Beyer.

Beyer said the department typically doesn't see an increase in calls until October focused more on challenges during and after school hours or related to behavior in school.

"We know that many of the challenges being reported can likely be attributed to feelings of stress, anxiety, and grief caused by the pandemic," said Beyer.

Beyer a parent herself said that the state was aware these mental health issues would arise after students were home for a year due to the pandemic.

However, "knowing it was expected doesn't make it easier when you watch your own child struggling," said Beyer.

The transition for children from pre-COVID routines is not necessarily quick or easy, said Beyer.

"Getting adjusted with as something as simple as waking up on time and taking the bus after not having have done it for a year can be a struggle and that transition can be hindered and complicated by feelings of stress anxiety and fear," said Beyer.

To help students, parents and educators, the state added a new webpage to its COVID-19 hub at covid19.nj.gov/youthhelp.

Additionally, parents are encouraged to call NJ system of care at 877-652-7624 which is open 24/7.

Parents should reach out if they see their children experiencing any of the following signs:

• Prolonged opposition and aggravations
• Property damage and disrespect
• Feelings of anxiety or depression
• A pattern or prolonged lying or fighting
• Stealing or substance use
• Or running away or engaging in acts of self-harm

Students can also reach out themselves to the Second Floor program by calling 888-222-2228 or visiting 2ndfloor.org or text NJ to 741741 to access the crisis text line 24/7.

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