The impact of the coronavirus and social media on generations
It's no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns have disrupted the daily lives of children and families around the world, contributing to mental health issues. Early studies conducted during the pandemic showed that mental health outcomes were worse, even worse for families of low socio-economic status and living in small homes. Children who experienced infection had increased levels of anxiety, depression, and appetite problems.
Research into the psychological effects of this generation of children and young people will likely continue for many years to come and will need to be conducted in response to the different experiences between age groups. Even as the world aims to return to normalcy, reports of chronic school absenteeism have arisen. A 2023 student survey found that 4 in 10 students felt persistently sad or hopeless, a third had experienced a decline in their mental health, and 22% had seriously considered suicide. It was shown that
Additionally, social media and internet use can impact mental health, especially among adolescents. In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory on social media and youth mental health, noting growing evidence that social media has a negative impact on youth mental health. A study of teens aged 12 to 15 found that those who used social media for more than three hours a day were twice as likely to have negative mental health outcomes such as depression and anxiety. Shown.
How payers can support mental health services for children and teens
Payers have the opportunity to support children facing mental health challenges by providing relatable health information and direct support to parents and caregivers. There are resources available for parents, such as Mental Health America and SAMHSA, but members should also do their research and vet the resources that are best for them and their children. Providing evidence-based information to support members and their families can benefit payer organizations in several key areas.
Supporting parents and caregivers with empathetic health information
Providing members with accessible and relatable health education materials about child mental health support can help with conversations and steps in care. This information can be aligned with the same specialized content that clinicians and pharmacists access at the point of care, providing consistent instructions, medication information, and recommendations for parents and caregivers. Members can access information through the portal, email, text, or whatever medium works best for them.
Economic benefits of supporting mental health challenges
One of the key benefits of addressing mental health care is improved long-term outcomes, lower healthcare costs, and less strain on the system. Among adults, direct medical costs are 149% higher for people with unrecognized symptoms of depression, and 51% of people with mental disorders also have a chronic illness. By addressing mental health issues early in life and supporting them as a preventive measure within the benefit system, children and teens gain tools and resources, reducing long-term costs and health problems. may be able to be reduced.
