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Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Children with ASD and ADHD in Northern Greece: A Pilot Study
Efterpi Pavlidou1, Anna Samara1, Sofia Michailidou1
1Speech and Language Therapy Department, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45000 Ioannina, Greece.
Insights
The COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), causing developmental issues and increased family stress. Sustainable care models are crucial for post-pandemic recovery.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Public Health Crises Impact
- Family Psychology
Background:
- COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life for children with neurodevelopmental disorders, especially Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
- Lockdowns and service interruptions significantly affected developmental progress and family functioning for these children.
- Previous research has not fully explored the long-term effects on children with ASD and ADHD in Northern Greece post-pandemic.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children with ASD and ADHD in Northern Greece.
- Investigate the consequences for affected children and their families in the post-pandemic period.
- Identify key areas for improved support and intervention strategies.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 72 children (ages 2-17) with ASD or ADHD in Northern Greece.
- Data collected via a 25-item questionnaire administered to parents/guardians.
- Information gathered on developmental, psychological, social functioning, family well-being, therapy, screen time, and online support access.
Main Results:
- Nearly half of families reported over 70% therapy reduction; 29.2% used online therapy with limited effectiveness.
- New behavioral symptoms like irritability and anxiety emerged in 45.8% of children; 29.2% of caregivers reported psychological distress.
- Over 90% experienced increased screen time; 87.5% of parents perceived negative effects, with 37.5% facing financial strain.
Conclusions:
- The pandemic caused significant developmental, psychological, and social harm to children with ASD/ADHD and their families.
- Service disruptions and increased caregiver burden highlight the need for flexible, sustainable care models.
- Strengthening telehealth, community interventions, and educational support is vital for post-pandemic resilience.
Background/Objectives:
The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted the daily lives of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Lockdowns, therapy interruptions, and reduced access to educational and healthcare services significantly affected developmental progress and family functioning. This pilot study aimed to assess the long-term impact of the pandemic on children with ASD and ADHD in Northern Greece and to explore consequences for their families in the post-pandemic period.
Methods:
Parents or legal guardians of 72 children (ages 2-17 years) with confirmed diagnoses of ASD (n = 57) or ADHD (n = 15) participated. A structured 25-item questionnaire captured information on developmental, psychological, and social functioning, family well-being, therapy disruption, screen use, and access to online support. Data were collected across urban, semi-urban, and rural areas of Northern Greece over six months. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed.
Results:
Most participants were boys (77.8%) and in primary school (73.6%). Common co-occurring conditions included learning difficulties (33.3%), anxiety (8.3%), and epilepsy (6.9%). Nearly half of families (45.8%) reported therapy reductions exceeding 70%, while 29.2% accessed online therapy, often with limited perceived effectiveness. New behavioral symptoms emerged in 45.8% of children, including irritability, anxiety, and emotional instability. Parental psychological distress was reported by 29.2% of caregivers. Screen time increased in over 90% of cases, and 87.5% of parents perceived the pandemic as negatively affecting their child. Financial strain was noted by 37.5% of families.
Conclusions:
The findings highlight the significant developmental, psychological, and social consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic for children with ASD and ADHD and their families. Service disruptions, unmet therapeutic needs, and increased caregiver burden emphasize the urgency of sustainable, flexible care models. Strengthening telehealth, integrating community-based interventions, and enhancing educational accommodations are essential for resilience in the post-pandemic era.
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