Reaearch highlights teen mental health concerns during Covid-19 pandemic
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
THE impact of the Covid pandemic on the mental health of young people has seen concerns highlighted.
Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston suggested the prolonged restrictions, absence from school and limits on social activity were leaving many feeling isolated from friends and family, with increased use of social media sometimes exacerbating the problem.
The Scottish Conservative MSP was responding to research conducted by the Mental Health Foundation and Swansea University which found more than a quarter of teenagers were showing symptoms and depression or anxiety.
Mr Halcro Johnston said: “The lockdowns, and other restrictions on our lives, have had a real impact on all of us.
“However, there is now growing concern at the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of our young people, particularly teenagers, many of whom have been left feeling isolated from their friends and the support they provide.
“That has led some to rely more heavily on social media for support, with evidence that this can - certainly in some cases - have a negative effect, exacerbating existing problems of isolation and anxiety.
“As we come out of the pandemic, we must do everything possible to support those who have experienced difficulties, as well as ensuring that our schools and support agencies are resourced to help those who need it, including other family members.
“Depression, if it is ignored or suppressed, can have long-lasting impacts on young people. Getting this right represents a vital investment in their future.”
More than a quarter of teenagers are showing symptoms of anxiety and depression, according to polling that reveals the severity of the pandemic’s impact on young people.
Teenagers participating in the study were asked how often they had felt “nervous, anxious or on edge” during the fortnight before they were interviewed.
Some 27 per cent responded that they had done so on “most” or “nearly all” of the days. A similar number struggled with concentration and nearly a third had trouble sleeping.
