Intersectional Disparities in Digital Health and Mental Health Service Use Among US Youth During the COVID-19 Pandemic
A cross-sectional analysis of a national survey examined the prevalence of digital health and digital mental health service use among US adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The study found that sexual minority youth, particularly sexual minority youth of color, reported elevated mental health challenges and persistent barriers to care, which were exacerbated by the pandemic.
Background
The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed a shift toward digital health and digital mental health services, making it challenging to understand digital exclusion and the digital divide.
Objective
The objective of this study was to identify the prevalence of digital health and digital mental health service use among US adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic and examine heterogeneity by sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and their intersection.
Methods
Nationally representative data were obtained from the 2021 Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey (N=7705).
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Author's summary: This study examines digital health disparities among US youth during the COVID-19 pandemic.