Mental Health During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic
During the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, teenagers and young adults faced significant mental health challenges. Well-being and ill-being indicators were monitored, with mental health deterioration largely resulting from chronic health concerns and frustration of basic psychological needs. Key factors such as emotion regulation were explored to understand the variations in mental health outcomes among individuals.
Concerns and Emotional Regulation
Concerns about health and the evolving pandemic situation heightened ill-being, with emotional regulation playing a crucial role. Dysregulation amplified depressive symptoms, while better emotion regulation strategies helped manage anxiety.
Basic Psychological Needs and Resilience
The pandemic threatened the satisfaction of basic psychological needs, such as autonomy, competence, and relatedness, which are vital for mental health. The Motivation Barometer project found that need satisfaction, particularly when coupled with reduced concerns, boosted resilience and well-being.
Vulnerable Groups
Young adults, in particular, suffered from greater need frustration, with unvaccinated individuals experiencing autonomy and social exclusion issues, contributing to increased mental health disparities.
