This collection of research, in collaboration with the University of Strathclyde and Mental Health Scotland, reviews the impacts of lockdown on the mental health and wellbeing of children and young people and their families in Scotland.
An overview of impacts on mental health
The first set of research focuses on reviewing the impacts that lockdown had on the mental health of young people and their families in Scotland, considering evidence within the context of the individual, family and education.
Research suggests that it had a significant impact on the mental health of children and families, showing increased levels of anxiety, distress and worry amongst children and young people, particularly regarding missed education and returning to school. Within the family context, the experiences of lockdown were particularly difficult for families where parents/carers are younger, key workers, and have a history of physical or mental health conditions.
Research published September 2020
Keywords: COVID-19; Mental Health and Wellbeing
Interventions for bereavement, loss and grief
The second set of research reviews the literature and evidence around interventions for children and young people experiencing bereavement and loss, focusing on primary, secondary, and tertiary interventions. The findings show the importance of interventions that support protective factors for children and young people’s mental health, support grieving as a family process, and embed peer-to-peer support.
Research published August 2020
Keywords: Bereavement; Grief; loss; Intervention; Mental Health and Wellbeing