The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children, Adolescents, and Their Families in German Speaking Countries

ABSTRACT

The current state of knowledge points to the COVID-19 pandemic as likely having fewer fatal somatic consequences than expected. However, the repercussions for the mental health of children and adolescents are alarmingly on the rise. These findings are even more alerting because they affect a system that was already heavily burdened before the pandemic. Moreover, efforts must be targeted on the as yet unclear consequences for the overall psychological, social, and emotional development of these age groups, since, for example, common learning spaces with peers were lacking over long periods or were accessible only to a limited extent. Regarding children and adolescents themselves, the immediate reference system of parents and family is also relevant for identifying potential protective and risk factors. Overall, both the studies included in this current special issue as well as further studies point to the necessity to expand prevention and early intervention, and to improve access to the healthcare system for affected children, adolescents, and families.