Researchers are investigating how the COVID-19 pandemic is contributing to increased substance use and growing mental health concerns among Hispanic adolescents.
With funding from the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, FIU psychologists Elisa Trucco and Matthew Sutherland are looking to find what factors are contributing to vaping and e-cigarette use among Hispanic youth in Miami-Dade County.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that individuals identifying as Hispanics are approximately 2.8 times more likely to contract COVID-19 and 4.6 times more likely to be hospitalized due to virus-related complications.
“Given the unanticipated, sudden, and sustained disruption due to COVID-19, youth are faced with growing uncertainties, new sources of anxiety, and added burdens related to daily routines and schooling, all within the backdrop of family and personal health concerns,” Trucco said. “The impact of these emergent and protracted COVID-19 stressors on youth mental health and substance use are unknown, particularly among health disparity populations who may be experiencing greater disruptions.”
Rosanna Castro – FIU News – Feb 18, 2021.
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