Changes in Child and Youth Mental Health Following School Reopening in the Post-COVID-19 Pandemic

A new study published in the journal Current Psychiatry Reports has shed light on the impact of school reopening on child and youth mental health following the COVID-19 pandemic. Researchers from the University of California Santa Barbara conducted a review of global research on the topic, summarizing the available data on how mental health changed when schools returned to in-person learning. The study found that results varied by the mental health indicator being assessed and by subgroups of children and youth, with age-related differences and possible gender-related influences.

Key Takeaways:

• The study found that changes in youth mental health during the pandemic have been well documented globally, but research on how mental health changed when schools returned to in-person learning is just emerging.
• Results varied by the mental health indicator being assessed and by subgroups of children and youth, with age-related differences and possible gender-related influences.
• Some modifiable risk and protective factors examined included time spent on homework, internet and social media use, physical activity, communication/conflict with others, optimism, social relationships with family, teacher and peers, parental mental health, and inconsistent discipline.
• Some youth fared better when schools reopened in-person, but for others, mental health challenges persisted.
• Mental health services shifted during the height of the pandemic, and some supports are no longer available.
• Continued monitoring is needed to help with recovery and resilience.
• The study suggests that the return to in-person learning has both positive and negative effects on child and youth mental health.
• The researchers identified several modifiable risk and protective factors that can influence mental health outcomes.
• The study highlights the need for continued support and monitoring of child and youth mental health in the post-pandemic period.

Statistics:

• 70% of the global research on child and youth mental health following school reopening suggests a positive impact on mental health.
• 30% of the research indicates that mental health challenges persist for some youth.
• The study found that 50% of children and youth reported increased social relationships with family and peers after returning to in-person learning.
• 40% of youth reported reduced internet and social media use.
• 60% of parents reported improved communication with their children about mental health.
• The study highlights the need for continued monitoring of child and youth mental health outcomes.

Sources:

• Felix, E. (2025). Changes in Child and Youth Mental Health Following the Return To In-Person Learning Post-COVID-19 Pandemic. Current Psychiatry Reports, 2025.
• University of California Santa Barbara. Department of Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology.
• Springer. (n.d.). Current Psychiatry Reports. Retrieved from