Mental Health Challenges for Adolescents in the Covid Era

The COVID pandemic has been very stressful for adolescents. They have had significant disruptions in their routines with remote learning, cancelled sports and activities, and concerns about COVID. Psychiatrist Dr. Karen Swartz, Director of Clinical Programs at the Johns Hopkins Mood Disorder Center, discussed potential mental health challenges for adolescence during this extraordinary period.

Specifically, Dr. Swartz discussed mood and anxiety disorders and psychiatric conditions most common among adolescents during the pandemic. She reviewed the symptoms of these disorders as well as treatment options. She also discussed positive coping strategies for all adolescents during this difficult time.