Adverse effect of pandemic on adolescents; mental health problems possesses a threat in teens: WHO report

EUROPE: World Health organisation (WHO) has reported a sharp spike in the number of degrading mental health among adolescents in many countries. The school-goers between 11 to 15 years of age have faced a challenge in cooperating with their mental health in the pandemic. A study conducted on Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC) reported that mental health has been declining in various parts of the country between the school-going children.

“Increasing number of boys and girls across the European Region are reporting poor mental health – feeling low, nervous or irritable – is a concern for us all,” says Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe. He also added that providing sufficient help to the adolescents would shape up their future in every possible generation.

There have been several cases reported where 1 out of every 4 adolescents suffers from severe mental health. Additionally, girls have compared to be suffering more than boys. Also, the fastest-growing digitalization has complicated the lifestyle of the children.  The introductions of new threats such as cyberbullying are now in fashion. The pressure of school works affects the performances of the children alongside. As the children grow older, they struggle to compete with the world and the mindsets of society.

“It is worrying to see that adolescents are telling us that all is not well with their mental well-being, and we must take this message seriously, as good mental health is an essential part of healthy adolescence,” said Dr Jo Inchley, HBSC International Coordinator, University of Glasgow.

HSBC has planned to feature the next study on the implication of the pandemic on the minds of the young children. The study will help to measure the impact of COVID-19 and lockdown on children. “The data comparison will enable us to measure to what extent and how prolonged school closures and community lockdowns have affected young people’s social interactions and physical and mental well-being”, said Martin Weber, Programme Manager for Child and Adolescent Health, WHO Regional Office for Europe.

—– Tanmaya Das