Generational impacts of COVID and social media
It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns disrupted the routines of children and families around the world and contributed to mental health challenges. Initial studies conducted during the pandemic indicated worse mental health outcomes, and were worse for families of low socioeconomic status and who lived in small homes. Children who had experienced infection had increased levels of anxiety, depression, and appetite problems.
Studies on the mental impact of this generation of children and youth will likely be conducted for years to come, and will need to be performed respective to the different experiences among age groups. Even as the world aimed to return to normal, reports of chronic school absenteeism arose. A 2023 student survey showed that four in 10 students felt persistently sad or hopeless, one-third experienced poor mental health, and 22% seriously considered suicide.
Additionally, social media and internet use can impact mental health, especially among adolescents. In 2023, the US Surgeon General released an advisory on Social Media and Youth Mental Health, citing growing evidence that social media is causing harm to mental health among youth. A study of teens ages 12-15 showed those who used social media more than three hours per day had twice the risk of negative mental health outcomes, including depression and anxiety.
How payers can support mental health services for children and teens
Payers have opportunities to support children in their mental health challenges by directly supporting parents and caregivers with approachable health information. Resources are available for parents, such as Mental Health America and SAMHSA, but members must also conduct research and vet the best resources for them and their child. Providing evidence-based information to support members and their families can benefit payer organizations in a few key areas.
Supporting parents and caregivers with empathetic health information
Supplying members with accessible, empathetic educational health materials about supporting their children’s mental health can help with conversations and steps in care. The information can be aligned with the same expert content clinicians and pharmacists access within the care setting, giving consistent instructions, medication information, and recommendations for parents and caregivers. Members can access the information in a medium that serves them best, such as through a portal, via email, or text.
Financial benefits of supporting mental health challenges
One of the major benefits addressing mental healthcare is improved long-term improved outcomes, reduced healthcare costs, and alleviated system strain. Among adults, direct medical costs are 149% higher for people with unrecognized symptoms of depression and 51% of people with mental health disorders also have a chronic medical condition. By addressing mental health challenges early in life—and supporting it as a preventative measure within benefit plans—children and teens can gain tools and resources, potentially mitigating long-term costs and health challenges.
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