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Depressive Anxiety Symptoms in Hospitalized Children with Chronic Illness during the First Italian COVID-19 Lockdown

Cinzia Correale1, Chiara Falamesca1, Ilaria Tondo1

  • 1Clinical Psychology Unit, IRCCS Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, 00146 Rome, Italy.

Children (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 26, 2022
PubMed

Insights

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted children with chronic illnesses (CI), with high rates of anxiety and depression observed. Tailored psychological support is crucial for their mental health during this period.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Psychology
  • Public Health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on global health and daily life.
  • While its mental health effects on the general population are documented, less is known about vulnerable groups like children with chronic illnesses (CI).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the prevalence of anxiety and depressive symptoms in pediatric patients with CI during the initial COVID-19 lockdown in Italy.
  • To identify clinical and demographic factors associated with these symptoms.

Main Methods:

  • A multi-centered, cross-sectional study was conducted in six Italian public children's hospitals.
  • Included were children aged 11-18 with at least one chronic condition and no cognitive delay.
  • Standardized questionnaires screened for anxiety and depressive symptoms during scheduled medical visits.

Main Results:

  • A high proportion of children with CI exhibited symptoms of anxiety (approx. 63%) and depression (approx. 68%), ranging from mild to severe.
  • These findings underscore the significant psychological distress experienced by this population.

Conclusions:

  • Children with chronic illnesses are particularly vulnerable to the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated public health measures.
  • There is an urgent need for specialized psychological interventions to support the mental well-being of these children.

Keywords:
COVID-19anxietychildhoodchronic illnessdepressionlockdownmental healthmood disorderspandemic

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