COVID-19's Impact on Brain Aging and Mental Health in Adolescents

Tuesday, 10 September 2024, 18:20

COVID-19 lockdowns have notably accelerated brain aging among adolescents, particularly in girls. This accelerated aging is associated with alterations in language and increased levels of depression. The findings are crucial for understanding mental health trends during the pandemic and highlight significant imaging results for future research.
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COVID-19's Impact on Brain Aging and Mental Health in Adolescents

The Effects of COVID-19 Lockdowns on Adolescent Brain Aging

Recent studies highlight that COVID-19 lockdowns have spurred changes in brain aging, particularly in adolescent females. Research indicates that these lockdowns have led to cortical thinning—a sign of accelerated aging in the brain—and have found a strong correlation with rising levels of depression.

Imaging Techniques and Findings

Utilizing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), researchers observed significant findings:

  • Adolescent girls displayed more widespread brain changes than boys.
  • Specific alterations noted in regions associated with language processing.
  • Changes in mental health were linked to stress from the pandemic.

Implications for Future Research

These findings shed light on the lasting impacts of the pandemic on mental health among young individuals. Understanding how coronavirus exacerbates stress and alters brain development is crucial for tailoring future health interventions.


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This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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