The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on children's lifestyles and anxiety levels.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study was conducted to determine the effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on children's lifestyles and anxiety levels. METHODS: This study was designed as a descriptive, cross-sectional online questionnaire survey. RESULTS: Of the children, 91.9% reported that the pandemic had an important effect on their lifestyle. Children stated that they experienced changes in terms of nutrition, sleep, television-internet use, social activity, coursework time, and school success due to the pandemic. IMPLICATION FOR PRACTICE It was determined that the COVID-19 pandemic caused changes in children's routines, and the children experienced moderate or high levels of anxiety. Primary healthcare providers should increase their attention to these issues to protect and improve children's mental health during the pandemic period.