Predictors of mental health worsening among children and adolescents during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic

Caffo, Ernesto; Asta, Lisa; Scandroglio, Francesca

Restrictions put in place to contain the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have significantly affected the lives of children and adolescents worldwide. School closure, home confinement and social distancing have the potential to negatively impact the mental health of this population. Several risk factors seem to contribute to worsening mental health of children and adolescents, with an increase of anxiety and depression symptoms. This review aims at exploring research available on risk factors that may worsen the mental health among children and adolescents during the pandemic. RECENT FINDINGS: Some of these predictors in worsening the effects are social isolation, screen time and excessive social media use, parental stress and poor parent–child relationship, low socioeconomic status, preexisting mental health conditions and/or disabilities. SUMMARY: Further research is needed in order to understand mental health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as risk factors associated with negative consequences. New findings will help in targeting evidence-based interventions to prevent and mitigate the negative effects of COVID-19 on the mental health of children and adolescents.