The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the mental health of young people around the world. Research has shown that the isolation and disruptions caused by the pandemic led to a rise in depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues among the younger population.
Amelie, a French university student, shared her experience of facing a deep depression triggered by the challenges of the pandemic. She is not alone in her struggles, as studies have revealed that a large number of young adults and teenagers have experienced mental health issues as a result of the pandemic.
In France, a survey found that a fifth of 18-24 year olds experienced depression in 2021. Similarly, in the United States, 37 percent of high school students reported poor mental health during the same year. A study of Finnish teens also showed an increase in anxiety, depression, and social anxiety symptoms during the pandemic.
The impact of the pandemic is not limited to young adults; children who were just starting school during the pandemic have faced challenges in learning and emotional development. A review of studies across 15 countries found that children have not yet caught up from the learning delays caused by the pandemic.
In the UK, school absences reached unprecedented levels in the 2023/2024 academic year, with a significant increase in the number of children needing mental health services. Simon Kidwell, a school principal, highlighted the “long tail of challenges” created by the pandemic, including academic and behavioral issues among students.
Children with conditions like ADHD or autism spectrum disorder may have had mixed reactions to the disruptions caused by the pandemic. Some found relief in the quieter, less stimulating environment of lockdown, while others struggled with the loss of routine and support services.
Overall, the pandemic has highlighted the importance of early intervention and support for children and young adults facing mental health challenges. It is crucial for schools, healthcare providers, and families to work together to address the long-lasting effects of the pandemic on the mental well-being of the younger generation.
This article is based on information from various studies and interviews conducted in different countries. The impact of the pandemic on mental health is a complex issue that requires ongoing research and support to help young people recover and thrive in the post-pandemic world.
