Effects of changes in the Child Tax Credit on mental health in adolescents

COVID-19 Pandemic-related Changes in the Child Tax Credit and Effects on Behavioral Health for Medicaid-enrolled Adolescents

NIH-funded research Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp · NIH-10686628

This study looks at how the changes to the Child Tax Credit during the COVID-19 pandemic have affected the mental health of teenagers on Medicaid, to see if more money for families can help reduce stress and improve their well-being, especially for those dealing with depression.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionResearch Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, United States)
Project IDNIH-10686628 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how changes to the Child Tax Credit during the COVID-19 pandemic have impacted the behavioral health of adolescents enrolled in Medicaid. By analyzing financial relief provided to families, the study aims to understand if increased household income can reduce stressors and improve mental health outcomes, particularly for those with major depressive disorders. The research employs a quasi-experimental design to compare behavioral health events before, during, and after the implementation of the Child Tax Credit changes. It also explores how these financial resources may help adolescents continue their treatment for mental health issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents enrolled in Medicaid who are affected by behavioral health issues, particularly those with major depressive disorders.

Not a fit: Patients who are not enrolled in Medicaid or do not have behavioral health issues may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health outcomes for adolescents by demonstrating the importance of financial support in reducing behavioral health issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that financial support can positively impact mental health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.