Dealing With Anxiety and Depression in Children from Low Socioeconomic Backgrounds

Children from low socioeconomic backgrounds often face a unique set of challenges that can contribute to the development of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression¹. For these children, life comes with unique types of challenges, financial issues combined with unsafe living provide constant stress that can build anxiety and depression beginning from a very young age². These children live in a world where survival often takes precedence over emotional well-being. Yet, their mental health deserves attention, not only for their immediate happiness but also for their long-term success. These children sometimes absorb the stress of their caregivers, who are themselves overwhelmed by economic pressures and this can lead to feelings of neglect or guilt. Additionally, exposure to trauma, such as violence or substance abuse in their communities, further compounds their emotional struggles. There is a significant disease burden of anxiety and depression in children globally, with as much as 8.8% of children and adolescents diagnosed with various mental health conditions³. A staggering 23% of Nigerians struggle with anxiety disorders, a concerning statistic that highlights the urgent need for mental health support and awareness, with teenage anxiety being just as prevalent in Nigeria as it is in other parts of Africa⁴. Furthermore, public health initiatives have faced significant obstacles due to the rising prevalence of major depressive disorders, and anxiety disorders.

Regrettably, within these communities, it is rather challenging to get access to mental health services. Parents or caregivers may not notice the symptoms, and a societal stigma discourages seeking help. When left unattended, anxiety and depression can seriously affect a child’s ability to learn, make friends, and remain healthy. Children often express their struggles in ways that might not seem obvious. Some common signs include; physical (frequent headaches, stomach aches, or changes in sleep and appetite), emotional (persistent sadness, irritability, or feelings of hopelessness), behavioral (difficulty concentrating, withdrawal from social activities, or a sudden drop in school performance). Paying attention to these signs, especially in children who cannot articulate their feelings, is crucial for early intervention.

Several approaches can assist children with mental health issues. They should be encouraged to share their feelings while knowing that they will not be judged, which will help open the door for dialogue⁵. Furthermore, parents, teachers, and community health workers are in a position to identify these mental health problems and address them⁶. It is important that they are trained to identify the signs and provide the children with the support that they need. Basic activities such as deep-breathing exercises, writing a diary, and performing art or play therapy can be helpful for children who need to regulate intense emotions. Such activities assist children in managing their emotions in a conducive manner. There are a few school-based non-governmental and faith-based organizations that have low-cost or no-cost mental health services and programs that focus on the emotional needs of children⁷. These are the services that parents and primary caregivers should identify. Giving children a safe and healthy environment to play, learn, and heal can be achieved through mentorship programs, peer support groups, initiating recreational activities, and much more. All these are aimed at improving emotional well-being and combating the feeling of isolation among children.

Policymakers can make a difference by strategizing affordable and accessible mental healthcare. This can include creating school counseling services where it is absent and improving on existing services where it is present, increasing funding for community mental health clinics, and increasing awareness for children’s mental health issues. For society to stop stigmatizing people with mental illnesses, it is important to openly talk about the issues surrounding it. Sharing success stories, especially in low-income areas is important to help welcome the change. It is also important to clarify the wrong perceptions regarding mental health. The community, especially the leaders, skilled personnel, and teachers should focus on changing the negative narratives surrounding mental illness and promote the positive ones.

Finally, tackling anxiety and depression among children raised in lower-class families is a collective effort. It is imperative for parents, teachers, community workers, and the government to ensure these children get the help they so desperately need. Each child no matter what their background is should have the means to deal with life’s challenges. Focusing on mental health at a young age enables children the opportunity to succeed in life, putting an end to the poverty cycle and bringing about a positive change in society. This is not just a call to action; it’s a call for compassion, understanding, and hope.

Together, we can make a difference.