Changes in tripartite dimensions of anxiety and depression in emerging adults before and during COVID-19

Using the tripartite model of anxiety and depression, we examined general distress (common to anxiety/depression), anxious arousal (uniquely anxiety), and anhedonic depression (uniquely depressive) symptoms before and during the pandemic in emerging adults, who may experience higher levels of distress as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic relative to others.

Emerging adults (n = 89, 53% White) ages 18-24, participated in four data waves (Baseline: Fall 2017-Fall 2018; January 2020; July 2020; January 2021).

We estimated covariance pattern models with various patterns of residual correlation, (selecting the best-fitting structure) and patterns of change (i.e., stable, linear, and quadratic).

Scores in all tripartite dimensions were elevated at baseline; anxious arousal remained elevated, while depression-specific symptoms decreased over time.

Findings contribute to a fine-grained approach to understanding emotional distress relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, proving potentially useful in conceptualizing the mental health of emerging adults in relation to disruptive life events.