How social factors during COVID-19 affected mental health in young people in South Africa
The impact of changes in social determinants of health on adolescent and young adult mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: A longitudinal study of the Asenze cohort in South Africa
This study is looking at how things like education and jobs affected the mental health of young people in South Africa during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it aims to understand these effects better so we can find ways to help improve their well-being.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10755168 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in social determinants of health, such as education and employment, influenced the mental health of adolescents and young adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. By following a large group of over 1100 participants over time, the study aims to understand the long-term effects of these changes and the mechanisms behind them. The research focuses on a population that has been underrepresented in previous studies, particularly looking at how these social factors impact mental health during a critical developmental period. Participants will provide insights into their experiences, which will help identify potential intervention points for improving mental health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 25 living in South Africa who have experienced changes in their social circumstances due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Not a fit: Patients who are outside the age range of 12 to 25 or who do not reside in South Africa may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and interventions for mental health issues in young people affected by social changes during the pandemic.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies linking social determinants of health to mental health outcomes during the pandemic, this longitudinal approach focusing on adolescents and young adults is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kane, Jeremy Calvin — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Kane, Jeremy Calvin
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.