SUICIDAL BEHAVIOR OF ADOLESCENTS DURING THE NOVEL CORONAVIRUS INFECTION PANDEMIC

Abstract

Researches on respiratory viral infections has established an association between infection and risk of suicide. Several reports informed on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescent mental health, manifesting as depression and anxiety, suicide and self-harm. In particular, mood disorders are associated with the presence of antibodies against influenza A and B viruses and the coronavirus strain (HCov-NL63). We retrospectively examined 113 adolescents who had COVID-19 at the age of 11 to 14 years (78 girls, 35 boys), mean age 12 ± 2 years, who had a history of suicidal behavior. All adolescents noted on average after 3–4 months after they have suffered COVID-19, an increase in despondency with the gradual addition of apathy, unwillingness to do anything; a significant decrease or complete lack of motivation for any type of activity was revealed. Within 6 months after the infection, suicidal thoughts and tendencies arose. These circumstances require further study in order to develop effective methods of treatment and rehabilitation measures.