Many households in Israel and all over the world have suffered and are still suffering from financial problems caused by the Corona crisis. Economic stress has an effect on the mental state of the youth, and is among the causes of an increase in depressive symptoms – according to a new study, conducted by researchers at the Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, and published in the journal The Lancet Regional Health – Americas.
The study indicated that financial pressure, damage to the family economy and the feeling of uncertainty intensify the feeling of depression among teenagers. This study joins many other data that indicate the negative effects of the corona on the youth.
Dr. Iris Cohen Yavin, a child and youth psychiatrist at Maccabi Health Services in the Jerusalem and Shefala district, says that “the corona period did increase the anxiety stress levels among adults and teenagers alike. We see a significant increase in referrals to mental health clinics in the community due to a wide variety of reasons, including the economic pressure, the damage to family stability and the sense of security.”
She added: “Adolescents are often more aware of the family’s financial situation than their parents think, and even tend to intensify and exaggerate situations. It is important to reflect the situation to the youth, share their feelings and, if necessary, seek advice and assistance from a professional.”