IMPACTS OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON THE MENTAL HEALTH OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

The study aims to investigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of children and adolescents. This is an integrative literature review study with descriptive characteristics. To choose the articles, the inclusion criteria were original articles made available in full, published in Portuguese and English, published in the last 4 years that addressed the proposed theme. Exclusion criteria: duplicate, incomplete articles, outside the time frame and not in Portuguese or English. The present study points out that the presence of several risk factors, such as the intensity of the pandemic situation, strict protective measures, socioeconomic issues, parental psychopathology, dysfunctional family environment, social isolation and health concerns, has a significant negative impact on mental health. of children and adolescents. This complex interaction can lead to increased stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues in this vulnerable population. In short, the mental health of these groups must be a priority during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to avoid permanent harm to future generations.