COVID-19's Impact on Youth Mental Health

AUTHORS: Leiana Almaraz, Mattie Creager, Jessica Martinez, Kana Oliver, and Josie Pape
FACULTY: Jen Wallin-Ruschman
DEPARTMENT: Psychology

ABSTRACT

Idaho ranks 7th in the nation for youth suicide rates and these rates have only increased since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. This qualitative study sought to explore the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the mental health of 7th-12th graders in the Treasure Valley from the perspective of mental health service providers. We developed this study in collaboration with leaders from the Idaho WCA, Idaho Youth Ranch, and Children's Home Society who identified the need for research on youth mental health in relation to recent increases in youth suicide and emotional/behavior problems perpetuated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thirty-one individuals from 25 local organizations participated in semi-structured interviews. The interviewees included school counselors, therapists in private practice, and directors of mental health care organizations. Interview participants were asked about their understanding of youth's mental health pre-pandemic, changes to mental health with the onset of the pandemic, barriers to accessing services, and recommendations for change. Interview transcripts were collaboratively coded and examined using thematic content analysis. Interviewees identified COVID-19 as a catalyst for existing behavioral issues and proposed solutions such as increasing awareness of mental health and resources, improving protective programming, and building a positive sense of community. These solutions include community scale implementation techniques such as increasing awareness of mental health services to parents, increasing summer programming, and supporting service providers who are overworked due to staffing barriers. Interviewees additionally reported that continual shifts in education delivery caused by the pandemic created uncertainty, isolation, and developmental social delays. This study was the first in an ongoing community-college collaboration. Findings from this study were used to inform and inspire additional research conducted by College of Idaho students in the Community Psychology course.