Kids and teens in mental crisis mode—fact or fiction?
The mental health of children and adolescents has been a hot topic since the SARS-CoV2 pandemic, as depressive episodes, anxiety disorders, and eating disorders have increased significantly during this time, mainly due to the lockdown. Although the symptoms have declined significantly in children and adolescents since the end of the pandemic measures, there are numerous discussions about an increase in mental disorders in children and adolescents, as well as complaints about long waiting times and inadequate care. In her highly engaging and passionate presentation, Prof. Freitag presented current studies on mental health in Germany and critically interpreted them in the context of the long-term trend over the last few decades.
She also highlighted key risk, protective, and resilience factors and discussed an interpretation based on the social development of children and adolescents, with a focus on resources and problem-solving skills.