Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health and Resiliency of Pregnant and Parenting Adolescents and Young Adults: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to understand the impacts the COVID-19 pandemic has on the mental health and well-being of pregnant and parenting adolescents and young adults (AYA) to identify unique challenges they faced.

Method: Pregnant and parenting AYA from a teen and tot program at a safety-net hospital in the northeast participated in semistructured qualitative interviews. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and coded. Analysis was conducted using modified grounded theory and content analysis.

Results: Fifteen pregnant and parenting AYA participated in interviews. Participants were aged 19-28 years (mean age, 22.6). Participants reported adverse mental health experiences, namely increased loneliness, depression, and anxiety, engagement in preventive measures to protect their children's health, positive attitudes toward telemedicine because of efficiency and safety, delayed attainment of personal and professional goals, and increased attitudes of resilience.

Discussion: Health care professionals should offer expanded screening and support resources to pregnant and parenting AYA during this time.

Keywords: COVID-19; adolescents; mental health; parenting; pregnancy.