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Review
. 2021 Oct;68(5):945-959.
doi: 10.1016/j.pcl.2021.05.003. Epub 2021 May 19.

Mental Health Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children and Adolescents: A Review of the Current Research

Jill Meade  1
Affiliations
Review

Mental Health Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children and Adolescents: A Review of the Current Research

Jill Meade. Pediatr Clin North Am. 2021 Oct.

Abstract

Research confirms that children and adolescents are experiencing significant anxiety and depression during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Adolescents may be at greater risk, particularly females. Social isolation, loneliness, lack of physical exercise, and family stress may contribute to these problems. Children who feel unsafe with regards to coronavirus disease 2019 may be more likely to experience somatic symptoms, depression, and anxiety. Parental stress and mental health problems may put children at an increased risk for maltreatment. Medical and behavioral health professionals should routinely screen for depression and anxiety. Increased access to mental health services will be critical.

Keywords: Adolescent; Anxiety; COVID-19; Child; Depression; Mental health; Psychological.

PubMed Disclaimer

Conflict of interest statement

Disclosure The author has nothing to disclose.

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