Mental Health during COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Perceptions among Lithuanian Adolescents

Abstract

Background: Since the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, humanity has had to face unprece-dented change in daily routines. Therefore, the pandemic has also had an impact on mental health. Most of the literature analyzes adult experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic, while the youth is less investigated. The purpose of this study was to reveal adolescent experiences during COVID-19. Methods: This qualitative study consisted of 19 adolescents from 11–17 years old. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted, and thematic analysis was applied. Results: Five themes were identified: ambivalent feelings; daily routine changes; disappointment with distance education; coping strategies; and discoveries. Conclusion: The study revealed adolescents’ mostly negative feelings such as sadness, anger, loneliness, or boredom. They shared about frustrating daily routine changes and shifting to a distance education mode that was quite limited in effectiveness and conve-nience. Nonetheless, communication with family, peers, pets, active leisure, and favorite activities helped them to cope with the difficulties during COVID-19. During this period, adolescents had more free time for themselves and personal growth, found new activities, or improved some relation-ships. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic had mostly negative side effects, and regardless of positive experiences, it was mainly considered by adolescents as an adversity for their mental health.