WITH classes set to be done online for this school year, the Department of Health (DOH) warned the public on Saturday, September 5, against possible health problems to be experienced by students.
In a statement, the DOH said it is not impossible for students to experience physical and mental health problems as they adjust with the shift from traditional to online learning.
"With online classes, there could be increasing feelings of isolation due to lack of face-to-face interaction," said the DOH.
"Students may experience health concerns related to increased screen time, such as fatigue, headache, lack of motivation, avoidance/procrastination, among others," it added.
In order to avoid such conditions, the health department said there are activities that parents and their children may consider doing.
To prevent physical problems, the DOH said it is better to establish a routine, wherein there is an academic and personal life balance, which includes being physically active, eating, and sleeping.
"(It would be good to) take breaks in between classes and having time away from the computer," said the DOH.
The health department also said that mental health problems for children may be avoided by encouraging them to speak out loud their thoughts and feelings to others.
"Practice self-care, self-compassion, and self-awareness of their thoughts and feelings," it said.
To note, classes are set to open on October 5, 2020, with schools set to adopt either face-to-face or virtual modes of learning. (HDT/SunStar Philippines)