This study shows that children and adolescents with special health needs suffered more than others in terms of their physical, psychological and social well-being after the restrictions associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, with no obvious improvement over time.
These results indicate which groups of children and adolescents should be targeted by public health policies and interventions aimed at remedying social inequalities.
The results of this study show that a significant proportion of adolescents may have experienced suicidal ideation during the COVID-19 health crisis, but that these rates are comparable to those prior to the pandemic.
This study shows that 13% of children and adolescents were severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic in Geneva. Those suffering from a chronic health problem, living in an unfavourable family environment or whose health behaviours had deteriorated as a result of the pandemic were particularly at risk. A severe impact of the pandemic was in turn associated with reduced quality of life and mental health, even after health restrictions had been lifted.
This study showed that a significant proportion of children and adolescents suffered from persistent symptoms after infection with COVID-19, compatible with post-COVID syndrome. The 12-17 age group appears to be most at risk of developing these symptoms. These findings highlight the importance of early detection and management by primary care.
As yet little explored, the future time perspectives (FTPs) and concerns of adolescents described in this research carried out in Geneva highlight the need to implement interventions that strengthen the resilience of the youngest with regard to the future.
