In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, most countries have been practicing quarantine or self isolation, but what effect does it have on teenagers and adolescents?

Studies show when adolescents are out of school they are less physically active, have longer screen time and irregular sleep and diets. These can result in weight gain and other mental strains.

In China, the Ministry of Education estimates more than 220  million adolescents have been confined to their homes recently. Stressors like lack of personal contact, lack of personal space at home or even the fear of infection has a detrimental effect on children. This situation can lead to denial, stress, anxiety and fear.

The Center of Disease Control and Prevention said that suicide is the second leading cause of death in teenagers in America. Any form of isolation takes its toll on a person’s body, let alone if they are hormonal or already suffer from mental illness like many teenagers do.

Isolation isn’t the only thing attacking adolescents’ mental health. The news media is striking fear into the population including the teenagers. Fake news is also running rampant, misinforming them adding to the fear and confusion.

The long term of social isolation during the pandemic is detrimental to the adolescents mental health and physical health. Teens should try staying active and staying in contact with friends and peers to help decrease depression. 

Sources and Further Reading

Nursing Times: How Does Stigma Affect People With Mental Illness?

The Lancet: Mitigate The Effects Of Home Confinement On Children During The COVID-19 Outbreak 

The Lancet: Mental Health Care For International Chinese Students Affected By The COVID-19 Outbreak

Taylor&Francis Online: Isolating The Association Of Sleep, Depressive State, And Other Independent Indicators For Suicid Ideation In United States Teenagers 

Springer Link: Mental Health Of Quarentine And Isolation

The BMJ: Social Distancing In COVID-19: What Are The Mental Implications?