Scholar Success Stories: Exploring the Mental Health Effects of COVID-19
We’re always blown away when a 9th or 10th-grade student demonstrates an advanced academic prowess beyond their years. So when Student M came to us eager to somehow combine her interests in chemistry, biology, psychology, and sociology, we were all ears.
While participating in her Scholar Launch research program–under the mentorship of a General Surgery Resident from Florida Atlantic University–Student M began to discover the extent to which COVID-19’s victims suffered both physical and psychological pain from the virus.
Her curiosity led her to dedicate her research program to studying the global mental health effects of the pandemic. In particular, Student M’s exploration revealed that an increase in anxiety, caused by prolonged social isolation, could not only lead to higher stress levels and, therefore, disrupted sleep patterns but also suicidal ideation and extreme depression. And these overwhelmingly adverse effects of an unforeseen, unprecedented global pandemic affected all levels of society.
Student M’s research also lifted the veil on how healthcare workers, teachers, students, and enterprise and institution workers fared during COVID-19’s most impactful years. According to her report, by March of 2020, there had already been a decline of 5.3 to 24.7 million jobs. She went on to say, “Suicide is also closely linked with unemployment, as the lack of secure income creates emotional and physical vulnerabilities. “
Student M used her newfound knowledge to advocate for greater consideration of COVID-19’s devastating psychological effects–alongside the research and discussions regarding the virus’s physical consequences–stating: “The focus of the news on the transmission of the virus within various countries in the world has diverted attention from the equally demanding psychological aspect of the pandemic that may translate into long-term ramifications. A holistic response should contain physiological and psychosocial information and resources for the affected and the general population.”
Student M compiled her findings into a research paper she eventually published in the Yale Global Health Review, an undergraduate-run publication that features original, thoughtful research and balanced reporting. This, of course, is a sterling feat for any 10th-grader. Her stellar performance in her research program also earned her a well-deserved letter of recommendation from her Faculty Advisor, who lauded her as the “ideal student.”
We’re happy to give Student M a giant round of applause for all of her hard work. She exemplifies what dedicated students can achieve with the right tools, resources, and mentorship. We know she’s got a bright and shining future ahead. Contact us for more information about how Scholar Launch can help solidify your student’s academic goals.