Professional Documents
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Mental Health
COVID-19 has rapidly and dramatically altered our lives. Unfortunately, teenagers and young adults are
among those who may be most impacted as a result of the virus.
In the spring and summer months of 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic drove many schools to cancel in-
person classes and graduation ceremonies. Now, as we enter fall, many schools and colleges continue to
rely on virtual learning to keep students and teachers safe.
While the safety of students and teachers is of the utmost importance, online learning can have an impact
on the mental health of teens. We explain how online learning impacts teen mental health, along with
ways parents can help their teens cope while learning remotely.
Social Isolation
While primarily a place of education, school is also the of many teens’ social lives. School offers teenagers
and young adults an opportunity to connect with their peers. It’s an opportunity for them to socialize and
express themselves. However, with schools and colleges moving to virtual formats, teens may feel lonely,
unmotivated, or discouraged without regular social interaction.
Numerous studies have shown social isolation can cause higher rates of negative outcomes for the
mental and physical health of individuals. Other studies have found that face-to-face interactions can help
reduce depression and anxiety. Less social interaction may increase feelings of social anxiety and
pressures. For example, teenagers may worry about changes in their friendships as a result of prolonged
isolation.
Increased Stress & Anxiety
Alongside the lack of social interaction, online class structure can affect teens and adolescents in a
number of ways:
They may feel heightened anxiety about keeping up to date with their school work
Other teens may experience difficulty concentrating or staying focused while at home
For some adolescents and young adults, being in front of others on video can lead to its own
anxieties
Students may find it difficult to receive the extra education support they need to succeed
As many parents know, being a teenager or young adult is often challenging enough; however, additional
pressures placed on students can exacerbate normal anxieties and stressors.
In addition, while school is a place for teens to socialize and form friendships, not all social interactions are
positive. Students may become victims of bullying at school. For these students, virtual learning offers an
escape from depression and anxiety caused by the fear of being bullied. For other students, virtual
classes can also provide an escape from the constant weight of peer pressure.
Designate a quiet area of your home specifically for classes and homework
If necessary, use room dividers, furniture, or clear out storage space to create a distraction-free
area
When possible, consider encouraging your teen to occasionally change to a new area throughout
the day
It may also help to encourage your child to do schoolwork in an area they don’t associate with rest or
entertainment. In addition, try to limit the use of devices until the end of the school day as a normal
classroom would.
Be sure your child follows a regular sleep schedule and has routine wake-up times. This is especially true
for young adults in college. With classes spaced out through the day, it can be easy for a college student
taking virtual classes at home to fall into the trap of late nights followed by sleeping in too late. Encourage
your child to get a healthy amount of sleep.
As for exercise, there are plenty of both indoor and outdoor options to keep your kids active. Walks and
bike rides are great ways to stay active while maintaining appropriate social distance from others.
Although it may be challenging in times of extra stress and uncertainty, set a positive example. Maintain
an upbeat attitude and encourage healthy conversation within the household. Remember, teens and
young adults still look to their parents for support and guidance. Provide encouragement and hopefulness.
Cultivating a positive attitude within your home can make a considerable difference in the mental health of
the entire family.