The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened youth mental health issues, particularly anxiety and depression, which had already been rising before the crisis. Factors like social isolation, educational disruptions, and increased screen time exacerbated these trends. A systematic review highlighted that symptoms of depression and anxiety among children and adolescents doubled during the pandemic. With over a third of high school students reporting poor mental health, it's clear that comprehensive strategies involving schools, families, and communities are essential to mitigate this growing crisis.
Social isolation caused by lockdowns and distancing measures has led to significant reduction in peer interactions, which are crucial for youth social development, resulting in increased feelings of loneliness and anxiety.
Before the pandemic, rising mental health concerns among youth were already evident, with increases in suicide rates among adolescents signifying a troubling trend that intensified during the pandemic.
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