Pandemic Effects on Teenagers' Brains and Mental Health
Monday, 9 September 2024, 12:03
Pandemic Impact on Adolescent Brain Development
The effects of the pandemic on mental health, particularly among adolescents, cannot be overstated. Delays in brain scans due to COVID-19 have revealed surprising outcomes regarding brain aging in teenagers.
Key Findings from the Study
- Accelerated brain aging: Girls' brains aged 4.2 years faster; boys' brains aged 1.4 years faster.
- Significant cortical thinning was observed in 30 regions for girls and only 2 for boys.
- Absence of control groups limits the study's findings, necessitating the use of normative modeling.
Importance of Supporting Teen Mental Health
As mental health challenges persist post-pandemic, experts emphasize the urgency of providing support for teens. Strategies like encouraging in-person connections and minimizing social media exposure are recommended to foster healthier development.
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.