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.
Sexual minority youth, particularly those of color, face elevated mental health challenges and barriers to care, which were exacerbated by the pandemic.
The rapid shift to digital health services has highlighted issues of digital exclusion and the digital divide.
Objective
This study aims to identify the prevalence of digital health and digital mental health service use among US adolescents during the pandemic, examining differences by sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, and their intersection.
Methods
Nationally representative data were obtained from the 2021 Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey (N=7705).
No specific quotes were found in the provided text.
Author's summary: This study examines digital health disparities among US youth during the pandemic.