1266 The double impact of the pandemic on BAME young people's mental and emotional wellbeing: the effects of racial inequality and COVID-19. (17th August 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lakhanpaul, Monica; Sharma, Anita; Gupta, Anna; Bernard, Claudia; Peres, Teresa
• Is Part Of: Archives of disease in childhood. Volume 107(2022)Supplement 2
• Page Start: A522
• Page End: A523
• Publication Date: 2022-08-17
• Subjects: Children -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Infants -- Diseases -- Periodicals; 618.920005
• DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2022-rcpch.841
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-9888

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: The combined impact of race discrimination and COVID-19 on the everyday lives of Black Asian and minority ethnic families and communities has drawn to the fore the glaring inequalities that exist in British society today. Drawing from a socioecological framework this ongoing research focuses on the emotional and mental wellbeing and resilience of Black and South Asian young people and how they have been differently impacted by the pandemic. With Black and Asian families already disproportionately impacted by the health and economic disparities, children and young people have been doubly exposed to emotional and psycho-social trauma. The aim of the research has been to examine the factors that impact the health, well-being and resilience of Black and Asian minority ethnic families and children during the pandemic. Methods: Starting from a critical race theory perspective, the qualitative research design uses a wellbeing and resilience framework and socioecological approach, to connect micro-meso-macro social processes. Semi-structured interviews, focus groups and creative workshops have provided insight into the combined impact of COVID-19 and racial discrimination on Black and South Asian young peoples' everyday life, and how they navigated change. Data was collated in 2021 through purposive and snowballing techniques including from a community groups and schools, with a total of 53 participants, aged between 12–19 who identified as Black, Asian or mixed Black/Asian heritage. A youth engagement panel was also set up to aid meaningful engagement and involvement with youth participants. Results: Findings based on a thematic analysis, provide insight into the interconnectedness of young people's relationships with family, peers, teachers, and community support workers for maintaining mental wellbeing. Isolation, anxiety, experiences of bereavement, separation from school and friends, conducting their lives online and the impact of social media, influenced their concerns about inconsistencies in the policing of 'lockdown' rules, education, health, mental health support, within the context of being young and from Black or Asian backgrounds. The prominence of BLM movement and amplification of racial injustices during the pandemic, encouraged participants to speak candidly about identity, racialization, belonging, friendships and highlight local, national and global processes of change necessary for tackling systemic racial discrimination.Although many communicated through social media, being at home and separated from peers/friends made them more introspective and reflective on their relationships and friendships. Conclusion: For Black and Asian young people already experiencing the adverse effects of structural inequalities, the pandemic has added some extra challenges in relation to maintaining their wellbeing. Their perspectives provide important insights into the complex multiplicity of factors that must be understood to build resilience post-COVID-19 - from new coping strategies, family connections, accessing support services, the importance and reliance on peer support and peer power, and the need for more culturally-responsive policies for young people; changes that respond sensitively to the emotional and mental wellbeing of Black and Asian young people.