Introduction
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted daily life for young adults, intensifying uncertainty, isolation, and psychological distress. This observational study examined how the pandemic affected diagnostic acuity at admission for anxiety and depression among young adults seeking mental health services at The Dorm in New York City and Washington, D.C., with a focus on symptom severity and overall functioning.
Summary of Findings
Results showed a 40 percent increase in anxiety scores during the first eight months of the pandemic, from March through November 2020, with overall severity reaching the severe range. Female-identifying clients were 1.5 times more likely to report reduced quality of life and experienced a 42 percent higher risk of decreased ability to engage in daily activities compared to male-identifying peers. These functional impairments were largely attributed to COVID-related restrictions.
Overall, the findings demonstrate the substantial mental health impact of the pandemic on young adults and highlight the need for adaptable, gender-informed, and holistic treatment approaches during periods of widespread disruption.
