Mental Health Concerns of School Going Adolescents in India during the COVID-19 Outbreak through Tele-helpline services

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health challenges globally. Adolescents on the cusp of adulthood, already grappling with significant developmental pressures and life changes, were further tested by the uncertainty created by the pandemic. This article aims to mapping and analyze trends in mental health concerns among adolescents in the post-pandemic era, based on calls received by the Manodarpan toll-free tele-helpline. The helpline was launched to provide psycho-social support to students, parents, and teachers through trained counsellors. The reported concerns relate to psycho-social issues such as a lack of skills to manage emotions, health-related problems, academic issues, difficulties with online classes, and anxiety related to studies and exams. The findings of this study will have significant implications for mental health practitioners and educators in providing support and planning policies related to mental health and well-being