Using MyHEARTSMAP to evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the psychosocial status of Canadian children and youth, and to inform mental health resources planning

COVID-19 Research Area(s): Epidemiology & Public Health, Mental Health & Wellbeing, Social Impacts

Emergency public health measures related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including physical distancing, school closures, and travel bans, have impacted our lives significantly. There is concern that these measures may lead to mental health issues among children, youth, and families. Mental health resource planning requires estimation of the impact of COVID-19 across the spectrum of social, psychiatric, functional and youth health areas. We will use MyHEARTSMAP, a validated online psychosocial screening tool, to identify the frequency at which specific issues occur, their severity and access to resources, to guide families to relevant mental health services and inform further resource planning.