The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic decreased both economic well-being and mental health. Using a survey of a diverse representative sample of Boston residents in the first months of the pandemic, we identify sources of vulnerability and resilience on mental health during the pandemic’s early months. Persons of color, who reported greater economic impact than white residents, reported less decline in mental health, a pattern consistent with prior research on what has been termed the “black-white mental health paradox” and the “Latino health paradox.” Women, younger and more educated persons reported more adverse mental health impact, in part due to changes in social connection. Loneliness and more online activity predicted greater decline in mental health, except when online engagement was with friends and family or was part of a religious community. Our findings help explain mental health effects of the pandemic and can guide planning to lessen adverse mental health effects of future pandemics.
Presenters: Matcheri Keshavan, MD, Russell K. Schutt, PhD, and Dr. B.S. Keshava
Dr. Keshavan is Stanley Cobb Professor of Psychiatry at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Harvard Medical School, a position he assumed in April 2008. He is also Academic Head for the department. Dr. Keshavan received his medical training in Mysore, India (where he graduated at the top of his University), and his psychiatric training in Bangalore (India), Vienna, London, and Detroit.
Dr. Schutt is past chair of the Department of Sociology, University of Massachusetts Boston and past chair of the American Sociological Association’s section on Evolution, Biology, and Society. He received his BA, MA, and PhD at the University of Illinois, Chicago and was a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Sociology, Yale University. He received the Chancellor’s Distinguished Service Award in 2007 from the University of Massachusetts Boston.
Dr. Keshava is a neurophysician whose passion lies in educating the public about neurological diseases. With a deep understanding of the complexities of the human brain, he seeks to bridge the gap between medical knowledge and everyday understanding. He leads public awareness programs on a range of neurological conditions, utilizing platforms like radio and television to reach a broad audience. Dr. Keshava strives to break down complex concepts into accessible information, empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their neurological health.
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