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COVID's Shadow: Teens Face Mental Health Crisis
13 Jan
Summary
- Pandemic's isolation negatively impacts adolescent mental health.
- Online pressures like comparison and cyberbullying increase anxiety.
- Most teens use smartphones and the internet daily, worsening issues.
The COVID-19 pandemic has intensified research into its effects on adolescent mental health, with social isolation and online learning contributing to increased stress. Rising academic workloads and the pressure to excel in extracurricular activities compound these challenges for young people.
Globally, a significant portion of adolescents grapple with mental health conditions that often go unrecognized and untreated, according to the World Health Organization. In 2023, Pew Research Center data indicated near-universal smartphone ownership and daily internet use among teens aged 13-17.
This pervasive online presence exacerbates mental well-being issues. Constant social comparison, cyberbullying incidents, unrealistic beauty standards, and the fear of missing out (FOMO) are major drivers behind the surge in anxiety among teenagers, frequently resulting in diminished self-esteem.
