The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical and mental health of children and adolescents

The aim of this study is to identify the most significant factors that influenced the quality of life of school-aged children with chronic non-communicable diseases during COVID-19. Materials and methods. There were 2.905 respondents in total: 2.135 children aged 10-18 years who studied in general secondary education institutions (health groups 1-3), 770 children and adolescents who sought help at the clinics (health groups 4-5). Results. The most significant issue for all children and adolescents in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic was the threat of illness of their relatives. The second most significant issue was that children could not attend school and had to start online learning. The most common place to find information about COVID-19 was on the Internet, less often from parents, and even less often from the media and friends. Most children and adolescents did not notice any changes in their health (84.3%). Of those who experienced changes, 22.5% reported feeling unwell, drowsiness, weakness, disability, fatigue, 21.2% reported physical inactivity, and 26.5% reported deteriorating vision. They also complained of headaches, migraines, weight gain, knee pain, high blood sugar, and other. As a manifestation of the impact on the emotional and psychological state, children reported mood swings, depressive thoughts, aggressiveness, irritability, agitation, and emotional instability (14.2%). Concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic were expressed primarily in anxiety and tension in 27.3% of respondents almost constantly and 24.8% - sometimes (“from time to time”); 25.5% admitted to a sense of uncertainty and instability; 19.4% were threatened with COVID-19. Conclusions. Children have gained some experience and have prioritized the realization of the value of life and health, not only their own but also their loved ones. The second and third places were shared by mastering online learning, the ability to manage their time wisely, and expanding knowledge of hygiene skills during the pandemic. About 12% of children and adolescents have reconsidered their attitude to communication and having friends, connections with society, and have acquired new hobbies. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.