Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

We have tabled amendment No. 1 to the motion.

The Covid-19 pandemic has played havoc with the mental health of people of all ages. The brightest glimmer of light we have is the Covid vaccine. At present, the vaccine roll-out is gathering pace and a consistent supply of vaccines seems guaranteed. This should be a time of optimism, but almost every day the media have a story of conflict, confusion or contradiction. This undermines public confidence. Releasing vague information on undecided issues is doing a grave and unhealthy disservice to people. It causes unnecessary worry and anxiety. It is a practice that should be curtailed

Every age group has suffered during the past year. Only the very strongest have escaped some form of damage to their mental health. Loss has been the biggest factor: loss of a loved one, of a job, of companionship, of social activities, of education and, for all, of freedom. The closure of schools has led to many health conditions. Children have missed out on personal contact with their friends, family members, classmates, teachers and school communities. The impact of trauma due to this pandemic and the lack of supports available is affecting children's academic, emotional and behavioural development. A total of 2,550 children and young people are awaiting access to CAMHS, while almost 9,000 children are awaiting primary care psychology treatment. These numbers are increasing at an alarming rate. Our younger generation has been through the type of trauma that previously did not exist. They have watched their parents struggle, their independence vanish. The pandemic has forced teens to be removed from normal social, physical and educational interactions. It is estimated that one in three adolescents will match the criteria for an anxiety disorder by the age of 18. This is a shocking and very worrying prediction.

We can learn from international best practice. Many trauma-informed school strategies and restorative practices that address chronic stress and build resilience in our children can be implemented in schools. The Minister for Education should provide the necessary training and supports and be ready to implement these strategies in September. We need a cross-party, cross-departmental and interdisciplinary approach to address mental health issues and access to supports and services. The Government must address the long-term effects of stress and trauma caused by this pandemic. It must initiate and implement policies and actions to counteract the mounting pressures on young people. Our personal ability to recover from this pandemic lies in the strength of our mental health, and the strength of our mental health lies in the support we receive. The Government must not be found wanting in providing that support.

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