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Pandemic Sparks 11.8% Surge in Youth Mental Disorders

3/20/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A recent study uncovered a staggering 11.8% annual rise in mental disorders among children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021 alone, 123 million new cases emerged, with anxiety disorders topping the list as the leading cause of nonfatal disability. Alarmingly, young adults and females faced the greatest disparities in mental health challenges.

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Story summary

A recent study uncovered a staggering 11.8% annual rise in mental disorders among children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021 alone, 123 million new cases emerged, with anxiety disorders topping the list as the leading cause of nonfatal disability. Alarmingly, young adults and females faced the greatest disparities in mental health challenges.