Teens are especially vulnerable to the disruptions and traumas of the coronavirus pandemic, with ample evidence that there has been an increase in anxiety and depression among adolescents. To give families and school communities the tools to understand and support them, the Alliance has launched a Reemergence Initiative to provide targeted resources.

The continuing impacts of the coronavirus pandemic include academic loss, feelings of anxiety or depression, race-related trauma, and family challenges including grief and economic hardship. Being aware of the signs of symptoms of mental health and adjustment challenges is imperative for caregivers and educators. They can look out for big changes in behavior, mood and habits like:

• School avoidance
• Not wanting to see friends
• Losing interest in things they used to enjoy
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Disruptive behavior or aggression

Learn more about helping teens navigate these challenges with our tipsheets for parents and educators in English and Spanish.