Long-term impacts of COVID-19 on youth and adolescent mental health.

Long-term impacts of COVID-19 on youth and adolescent mental health.Background: There is much heterogeneity in evidence that exists about mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most evidence focussing on youth and adolescents, though, seem to indicate a worsening of mental health, such increasing anxiety and depression symptoms. All existing longitudinal evidence regarding mental health during COVID-19 use pre-pandemic measures as a baseline, then measures taken during early stages of the pandemic, so long term mental health effects post-pandemic are still unknown. Some literature from previous global disasters suggests poor mental health can be sustained in a youth population for long periods of time, though things such as increased resiliency in youth may create more long-term stability. Objectives: This study aims to clarify the longer-term effects of COVID-19 on Canadian youth and adolescent mental health. Proposed Methods: Longitudinal data will be derived from iterations of the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS). Mental health outcomes, such as depression, anxiety and self-perceived mental health will be compared over several years to determine trends. Significance: COVID-19 was an unprecedented worldwide health event that has unknown long-term impacts on the population. Beyond continuing to document the effects of this pandemic and associated control measures on mental health, it is important to understand the impacts on youth and adolescent populations, as potentially the most vulnerable, yet most resilient age group with regards to mental health.