VIDBE-Q Volume 66 Issue 4
social, emotional, academic, and mental health outcomes. As it relates to mental
health, children who are bullied are more likely to experience depression, anxiety,
increased feelings of sadness and loneliness. According to Jessup, Bundy, Broom,
and Hancock (2017) feeling of loneliness is common among children and
adolescents with visual impairments. High levels of loneliness among students
with special educational needs in mainstream schools may indicate that these
students are at risk of lifelong socioemotional problems if they do not receive the
appropriate support (Schwab, 2015).
Recognizing Symptoms
When dealing with the emotional difficulties of children with visual
impairments a primary way to intervene is for parents and teachers to become
aware of symptoms of anxiety and depression. Huberty (2008) summarized the
major signs of anxiety and depression in children The major signs of anxiety can
be represented as thinking/learning, behavioral, or physical signs of anxiety (see
Table 1).
Children and adolescents can demonstrate depression in cognitive,
behavioral, and physiological behaviors or patterns (see Table 2). As with anxiety,
not all children will show all signs, or the signs may vary in frequency and
duration. For both anxiety and depression, it is important for parents and teachers
to notice patterns and observe changes in behaviors that may interfere with student
