A Pilot Study of the Intersection of COVID 19 and Activist Mental Health

Abstract

Recent tensions in society have led to protests and demonstrations to raise awareness and consciousness. These efforts can be draining. Domestic increases in youth activism have illustrated transformative community action and highlighted the need to explore youth activist sustainability and mental health. Therefore, a phenomenological study was conducted to explore Millennial and Generation Z activists’ mental health perceptions and engagement during times of protest and the COVID-19 pandemic. The voices of seven youth activists regarding their experience with concurrent activism and mental health maintenance were explored. Through interviewing, themes of activists’ mental health behaviors emerged, including: (a) wellness maintenance, (b) mindset, and (c) technology. Intentions of youth activists to participate in integrated care were discussed. Implications and suggestions for counselors and helping professionals are provided.