Investigating the potential mitigating role of public health on adolescent health in Ontario during the COVI9-19 pandemic

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, mental and sexual health conditions among Canadian youth have been a concern to both public health researchers and school administrators. High proportions of depression and anxiety, as well as increasing chlamydia and gonorrhea rates have raised the alarm. During the pandemic, public health restrictions, such as school closures, social distancing, and stay at home orders may worsen these mental and sexual health issues, particularly during this important stage during their development. The goal is to estimate the extent to which disruptions to public health services during the COVID0-19 pandemic has impacted mental and sexual health among Ontario youth. We will also determine whether disruptions disproportionately affected youth across different gender and racial groups.