Emotional reactions of hospitalized children due to COVID-19

Aim: The aim of this study is to explore the manifestation of anxiety symptoms in children who have experienced COVID-19. It examines psychological effects, their emotional responses to distress, and the coping mechanisms they employ to manage their illness.
Methodology: Participants included 50 children aged 6-14, hospitalized in the "General Pediatrics" and "Infectious Pediatrics" departments at the University Hospital Center Tirana (QSUT). The "State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (STAIC)" was used to assess self-reported anxiety.
The children's way of life changed significantly due to social isolation and fears of losing their own lives or those of family members. These fears affected their daily functioning. While anxiety is a natural adaptive response, it becomes a disorder when uncontrollable, frequent, and occurs without external stimuli, manifesting in physical and emotional symptoms, and leading to behavioral and cognitive changes.
Conclusions: Children aged 10-14 reported higher levels of anxiety. Variables such as illness severity and age influenced results. Common symptoms included:
·         Need for reassurance
·         Irritability
·         Physical complaints (functional)
·         Difficulty concentrating
·         Feelings of tension and fear
·         Negative thoughts about the future
Children aged 6-10 expressed their anxiety through symptoms such as fear of being alone, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and changes in eating habits.