Sheffield psychologists study the impact of lockdown on young people

Psychologists at the university have teamed up with those from Ulster University to survey a UK representative group of 2,000 people aged 13-24, to examine the impact of the pandemic on young people at different stages of development and identify the factors influencing their mental resilience.

The team hopes to publish initial results in about two weeks – and wants to survey the same group in the future to investigate the longer term impacts of the crisis on their wellbeing.

Those taking part will answer questions about their current circumstances, wellbeing, experiences with Covid-19 and engagement with physical distancing guidelines.

The psychologists aim to measure rates of anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms.

As part of the study they will assess whether factors like family relationships and background increase their risk of pandemic-related mental health issues, and how their wellbeing affects their level of adherence to lockdown rules.

So far, little research has been done into how the pandemic is specifically affecting young people, so the experts hope this study will inform future government policy designed to support them and their parents and carers during and after the lockdown.

Dr Liat Levita, a senior lecturer at The University of Sheffield and principal investigator of the study, said: “The coronavirus pandemic has brought enormous uncertainty for young people studying for exams, hoping to start university and entering the world of work.

“Our study will uncover the impact this unprecedented lockdown is having on their mental health and help to explain why some are breaking physical distancing rules.

“In order for the government to deliver the support young people need to come through this crisis, we urgently need to understand how it feels to be growing up during a pandemic.”