Psychological stress of children and adolescents during the corona pandemic Literature review and project outline

Background International studies show that measures to contain the COVID-19 pandemic can lead to increased mental health problems in children and adolescents. Overall, there are many study activities on this topic, but only a few representative studies for Germany. Objectives The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children and adolescents in Germany will be investigated, as well as the risk and protective factors for mental well-being during the pandemic. Subsequently, an EU-wide project will be outlined, which aims to promote the mental health of students through a training program for teachers and other educators. Methods Using literature databases PubMed and Medline, an unsystematic literature search was carried out in the sense of a narrative review. The studies included in this work were selected based on their thematically appropriate abstract. Results The number of children showing mental or behavioral problems increased rapidly. Above all, social isolation, fears and insecurity, as well as conflicts within the family due to excessive demands or financial worries, lead to a deterioration in the psychological situation of children and young people. The consequences are depressive moods, behavioral problems and psychosomatic complaints. Conclusion The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children and adolescents should not be underestimated. There will also be a special need for support in the coming years.

Automated summary

International studies show that measures to contain the COVID-19 pandemic can lead to increased mental health problems in children and adolescents. This study aims to investigate the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of children and adolescents in Germany, as well as the risk and protective factors. Additionally, an EU-wide project will be outlined to promote the mental health of students through a training program for teachers and educators.