IMPACT OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON DISABLED CHILDREN AND THEIR MENTAL HEALTH IN KARACHI, PAKISTAN

Abstract

Due to the spread of COVID-19, educational institutions in Pakistan and around the world were forced to close, and there was an immediate transition to distance education. Although COVID-19 affected nearly everyone and everywhere in society, students with physical and mental disabilities are one of the most vulnerable groups owing to activity limits. Due to their inability to sit still for extended periods of time, SEN students were unable to complete online courses. Also, SEN schools were closed. Students with special needs stayed at home for an extended period of time, which habituated them to being at home. As a result, they abandoned their schools, and their eating habits were altered, leading to an increase in their obesity, developmental delays, and behavioral problems.