Mental Health in Young People During COVID-19
Author Information
Author(s): Rouquette Olivier Y., Dekel Dana, Siddiqi Abdul-Moiz, Seymour Catherine, Weeks Lauren, John Ann
Primary Institution: Swansea University Medical School, Swansea, UK
Hypothesis
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect the mental health of young people in the UK?
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted young people's mental health, increasing anxiety, depression, and loneliness, particularly among those who are older, female, or facing financial difficulties.
Supporting Evidence
- Young people experienced higher levels of anxiety during the summer and fall of 2020.
- Depression levels peaked during the winter of 2020-2021.
- Loneliness gradually increased, peaking in spring and summer of 2021.
- Help-seeking behaviours reduced the risk of depression and loneliness.
- Participants advocated for better mental health training for teachers.
Takeaway
Young people felt more anxious and lonely during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially if they were older or had money problems. They want better mental health support in schools.
Methodology
A cross-sectional panel survey conducted over five waves of data collection using validated self-reported questionnaires.
Potential Biases
Participants with existing mental health conditions may be underrepresented.
Limitations
The study may have biases due to non-probability sampling and reliance on self-reported data.
Participant Demographics
Participants aged 13-19 years, 48.7% female, 51.3% male, with 88.3% identifying as White.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Confidence Interval
95% CI for various measures reported
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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