Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health of Adolescent Girls in Semi-urban area of Maharashtra, India

ABSTRACT

Background: Corona Virus Disease-19 (COVID-19) is an infectious pandemic that has recently emerged. Preventive steps made to curb the spread have far-reaching consequences across all sectors and age groups. Adolescents are the most silent victims. They are not unconcerned about the COVID-19 Pandemic's severe psychological impact. Fears, uncertainty, significant changes in their routines, physical and social isolation, and a high level of parental stress affect them. The aim of this study is to identify the effect of the COVID- 19 pandemic on mental health of adolescent girls. Methodology: Data was collected through an online survey during the month of June and July 2021. In this study, 228 participants were included. The impact of the Corona virus pandemic on participants' mental health was assessed using a validated questionnaire. Result: The study showed that most of the adolescent girls were feeling stressful due to not able to go to school (75%), not able to meet friends (56%) and confined in a house during COVID-19 pandemic. 66% girls showed fear of corona infection, 50% girls were worried, 35% were showed anxiety whereas 25% girls showed restlessness and fear of death due to COVID-19. Conclusion: The findings imply that during the COVID-19 pandemic, adolescent girls are more concerned about government constraints aimed at preventing the virus's spread, and that these concerns are linked to higher anxiety, fear, restlessness, and worry. To avoid the situation from worsening, more research and support should be done.