Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 on the Mental Health of Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder and their Families
Abstract
In March 2020, the world entered a state of lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The isolation caused by the pandemic had an unprecedented effect on the lives and general wellbeing of individuals worldwide. The present study engaged 15 children with diagnosed Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) and their parents in virtual interviews in order to explore the unique ways that the COVID-19 pandemic affected their mental health and the specific barriers they faced to maintaining optimal mental health. A thematic analysis revealed that the most frequently identified mental health effects were increased child anxiety and disconnectedness, as well as deteriorating parental mental health. The most frequently identified barriers to maintaining optimal mental health were lack of routine, lack of social interaction and social supports, and uncertainty and fear. This research identified areas of need during times of social isolation, specifically in families with children with ADHD, and is intended to help create safeguards to support mental wellbeing during times of crisis.