The Pierce family sits at their dining room table often these days to let their imaginations soar. But it’s not just a corner of creativity, it’s where they can connect and have some control during the COVID-19 crisis.

"It’s definitely a little bit frustrating that for such a long time there was nothing we could do about it," said 16-year-old Sophia Pierce.

"I do get a little sad sometimes just because I like to leave the house," said 12-year-old Jewel Pierce.

"I’m also sad because a lot of people are losing their jobs and a lot of people are dying and a lot of people are getting very sick," said 10-year-old Caspian Pierce.

The Syracuse siblings, and their two other brothers, who have autism and ADHD, are trying to overcome the mental and emotional pain of the pandemic.

"As a parent, part of my job is to help them," said their mother Samantha Pierce. "Talk them through that so that those changes don’t become a scar later on their lives, but it becomes a strength. This is going to shape how they grow and develop and how they see the world."

Mental Health Clinician Elizabeth Evett says lack of engagement and life stressors are leading to severe anxiety, depression, and isolation among 11 to 17 year olds. She works for ARISE, which provides outpatient and tele-mental health services.

Evett says about 80% of calls come from parents regarding their children, and the after-hours crisis hotline and walk-in services have more than doubled this year.

According to a CDC report, emergency department visits for people of all ages declined during the early stages of the pandemic. But, that changed from April to October.

Compared to 2019, mental health-related visits for children spiked for ages 5-11 and 12-17, 24% and 31% respectively.

"Suicidal thoughts have definitely been something that’s increased, and that’s very concerning obviously," said Evett. "I think a big thing is just paying attention to different behaviors that are being seen and then going from there."

These behaviors include acting out, excessive worries or sadness, unhealthy habits, and poor school performance.

To help cope, Evett and the Pierces say conversations can be the best medicine.

"It is okay to not be okay," said Evett. "There are people here to help."

"Talking about it and just coming to the consensus that this sucks, but once it’s over, I’m not letting any of you go," said Sophia.

"Be gentle with the children," said Samantha. "Be gentle with each other people none of us have experienced anything like this before."

For more information on ARISE, visit their website. If you or someone you know needs help, call (315) 472-3171.