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 explores the prevalence of digital health and digital mental health service use among US adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Background
Sexual minority youth, particularly sexual minority youth of color, face elevated mental health challenges and persistent barriers to care, which were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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
This study aimed 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).
Author's summary: Analyzing digital health disparities among US youth during the pandemic.