O-14 Youth perspectives on mental health during COVID-19 lockdown in a Small Island Developing State: implications for public health emergencies.
Author(s):
MM Murphy, C Pemberton, E Wheeler, LD Gulston, O Kerr-Layne, A John, B Baksh, G Thomas, C Allen
Year of Presentation:
2023
Objective: Existing studies exploring the relationship between COVID-19 mitigation measures and mental health have primarily been quantitative and conducted in larger developed countries. A qualitative study to explore the knowledge, attitudes and behaviours of young people living in Trinidad and Tobago was conducted to engage and collaborate with youth on matters affecting them during the pandemic.
Methods: Ten virtual focus groups were conducted with 64 participants between the ages of 18-24. Groups were stratified by geographical location and socioeconomic status. Recordings were transcribed and data analyzed to explore themes of importance to youth.
Results: Negative impacts on mental health emerged as a strong theme. Lack of timelines (lack of knowing when curfews and stay at home orders would end (i.e. as they were continuously extended) for movement and other restrictions to prevent COVID transmission had various mental health impacts, many home environments were toxic, longer restrictions led to erosion of the social culture, and young people were stressed about the changing face of education and job security due to the pandemic.
Conclusion: Measures taken to address COVID-19 aggravated mental ill-health among young people. Initiatives to help young people navigate mental health issues in their generation must be developed. The increased need for mental health services during and because of the COVID19 pandemic highlights the general need for these services in the event of environmental and health emergencies faced by SIDS. More training and capacity building must be provided involving youth and professionals in supporting youth mental health.