March 15, 2021
by Alexa Tomassi
Solitude and depression from social distancing has been increasing, along with isolation from staying home during the COVID-19 coronavirus crisis
Photo by Getty Images
The COVID-19 pandemic has been detrimental to the mental well-being of children and teens across America and experts are ringing the alarm. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among 12 to 17 year-olds in the United States and the adolescent suicide death rate has steadily increased in the last decade. With the impact of the pandemic, particularly on young people, deficiencies and lack of capacity in the mental health system have been brought to light. Like other aspects of the pandemic, this has disproportionally impacted communities of color. Youth with mental health concerns are brought to emergency departments (ED) as a last resort for mental health emergencies. As the number of children presenting with stress, anxiety, and depression has skyrocketed throughout the country, EDs are overwhelmed and struggling to adjust and cope with the need for psychiatric services. Many ED providers feel inadequately trained or prepared to manage this incredible demand.