The harm sparked by the coronavirus pandemic has not left any business or individual untouched. But not all the consequences involve personal finances or the economy. New polling featured by The Huffington Post reveals America’s teenagers—who have missed out on milestone events and been isolated from friends because of the health crisis—have been impacted mentally.
The survey, conducted by Harris Poll on behalf of the National 4-H Council, shows seven out of ten respondents have struggled with their mental health in some capacity. More specifically, 61 percent of teens report that the pandemic has increased their feelings of loneliness; 55 percent say they’ve experienced anxiety; 45 percent say they are under excessive stress; and 43 percent believe they are depressed.
The coronavirus pandemic and associated lockdowns has dragged the economy through the wood chipper, but not all consequences are financial. The deteriorating mental health of young Americans is yet another reason the U.S. needs to reopen society. It’s time to ‘Flatten the Fear.’ More than just our economy depends on it.