Study finds pandemic impacts on teen girls' mental health exceed those of boys

A University of Washington study found that teen girls were more negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic than boys. Girls' brains aged 4.2 years beyond expected rates, while boys' brains aged 1.2 years more than expected, indicating greater vulnerability to anxiety and depression. The study revealed that girls experienced more thinning in brain areas linked to social interactions, which may have affected their emotional support during lockdown. Researchers noted that the pandemic's isolation could have lasting effects on mental health, particularly for girls. Counselors have reported increased anxiety and social withdrawal among adolescent girls since returning to school. Experts emphasize the importance of emotional support and social connections for teens to help them cope with the challenges stemming from the pandemic.