The back-and-forth uncertainty about mask mandates in New York can take a toll on students’ mental health, according to one psychologist, who said the mixed messages are not helping young people.
Wearing masks in schools to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 has been a contentious issue.
“All of this happened very quickly,” said Tom Templeton, a psychologist and parent.
But this week’s back and forth in the court system has complicated matters further.
What You Need To Know
- A ruling Monday struck down New York’s mask mandate
- An effort to appeal the ruling was approved Tuesday leaving the mandate in place for the duration of the appeal
- NYSED issued a statement to schools reminding families the mandate remains in effect
A court ruling on Monday struck down New York’s mask mandate. But the state successfully obtained a stay from a judge on Tuesday, meaning masking indoors will remain in effect, at least through the appeals process.
Templeton is a father of two young children and a mental health professional who works with young people.
“I think there is quite a bit of confusion on the part of parents,” he said, “and I think community members in general.”
The New York State Education Department issued a statement to schools, reminding them the mandate remains in place as the state appeals the decision.
“We empower school districts to create and enact policies that are in the best interest of our children, particularly around their health and well-being,” Templeton said.
He said his office has seen a significant uptick in cases of anxiety and depression over the past couple of years.
“It was the isolation that cause a spike in mental health issues. It wasn’t so much about masking or social distancing particularly,” he said.
There could, however, be additional ramifications from the mixed messaging surrounding masks, he said.
“The differences that adults in a community may, that parents may have, with one another, I don’t think it’s fair to let that affect the well-being of our young people,” Templeton said.
