4 | COVID-19 concerns raised by children and young people Children and young people who raised this concern did not usually specify the type of media, for example whether they heard about COVID-19 through social media platforms or more traditional news sources. However, those who raised it often indicated that hearing about COVID-19 increased their anxiety. Others said that hearing about COVID-19 and the restrictions in the media was confusing. An online survey on How Young People Access, Perceive and are Affected by News Media, involving 1069 children aged 8-16, conducted between February 28 and March 16 2020, showed that children have both strong positive and negative emotions in response to news media.13 The number of young people who often/ sometimes feel negative feelings as a response to news media has increased when compared with a similar survey in 2017, with feeling angry and sad both up 4% and feeling afraid up 5%. The numbers of both boys and girls who feel happy or hopeful as a response to news media also decreased slightly (1% and 3% respectively) when compared with 2017. Despite the negative emotions which news engendered in some young people, since the 2017 survey, getting news has become more important to young Australians (up 5% from 44% in 2017).14 The survey also showed that most young Australians consume news media that was intended for an adult audience.15 More than half (53%) of young Australians agree that young people should have their own news, while 32% say they do not know.16 Case studies: Hearing about COVID-19 in the media ‘Kirsty’, aged 9, called Kids Helpline saying she was scared of dying of COVID-19. She has been listening to the news and a lot of people are dying from it. Her foster mother works long hours in the hospital, which means she isn’t spending as much time with her as usual. ‘Cameron’, aged 25, with a disability and significant health issues, called Kids Helpline to say he is worried and overwhelmed by all the information about the virus on tv, radio, and social media. He tries to limit his exposure on all media forms, but also wants to stay informed, especially as his job may be affected. He is worried that in his job he could catch COVID-19, which would make all his other health issues worse. 4.13 Experiences of racism and bullying related to COVID-19 A small number of children and young people raised concerns with Kids Helpline about bullying and abuse related to COVID-19, including experiences of racism. (a) Experiences of racism related to COVID-19 • A small number of children and young people spoke about experiences of racism related to COVID-19. • These experiences included name-calling, ostracism and threats at school. Others heard about reports of racism on the media or had witnessed racism expressed by others online. 38