The Affects of Social Distancing on Teens

It is a confusing time for everyone currently. High schoolers are trying to stay connected to other teens on social media, and on their phones. Staying in the house is hard for the teens who tend to feel invisible, so this COVID-19 order is difficult on certain teen’s emotions. Of course it is essential that everyone practice social distancing because anyone can catch the virus. But teenagers- especially ones who were about to go through major milestones this spring, like prom, and graduation are feeling a very big variety of emotions because of missing major experiences. Adjustments will be made, like virtual prom of graduations, and it is helpful to look at the bigger picture in this whole pandemic. Henry Ford Medical Center’s Dr. Fatima recommends that teens should, “Take advantage of this break, connect with family and have fun.” She also says that “social media is a helpful tool to stay connected, but taking breaks from it for a couple hours is good for anyone’s mental health.”

If social distancing lasts only a few months most kids will bounce back into a social life just fine. Most kids are dying to get back out and with friends but for some younger kids, making friends from a young age is imperative to their growth, and social life. The most impacted coming out of this epidemic would be younger kids that haven’t had lots of chances to make so many friends in school. They would become used to staying in the house vs. going to school everyday and talking to and making friends.

For teens and kids going through this social distancing, the recommendation is calling your friends, Face Timing, etc. Hearing your friend’s voice and talking to them rather than texting is a better option. Texting is a good way of communication but calling is slightly better because it would be more like talking to them in person rather than just texting. Everyone recommends for people to stay strong, and hopefully normal life will be back to normal as soon as possible.