Gender dysphoria and eating disorders among children have seen a significant surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, as indicated by a recent report by LexisNexis Risk Solutions. The report analyzed medical claims data from 2019 to 2023 for individuals under the age of 18, revealing an 83% increase in mental health claims overall, with gender identity-related diagnoses rising by 133% and eating disorders by 108%.
The researchers highlighted the ongoing mental health crisis in the United States, which has been exacerbated by the pandemic and continues to impact the well-being of teens and young adults. Factors contributing to the spike in gender dysphoria include increased awareness of gender identity issues and greater cultural acceptance of diverse expressions of gender.
Licensed psychotherapist Abbey Jo Schrage emphasized the importance of providing safe spaces for youth to explore their identities without fear of judgment. Parents and communities can support children by filtering age-appropriate content and listening to them without criticism.
Jonathan Levine, a licensed clinical social worker, attributed the rise in gender dysphoria cases to increased awareness, normalization, and acceptance of diverse gender identities. He emphasized the importance of affirming family support in reducing suicidality among transgender and gender-expansive youth.
On the other hand, eating disorders have also seen a sharp increase during the pandemic, with exposure to idealized body images and a desire for control cited as common triggers. Schrage advised parents to set limits on media exposure, prioritize family meals, and focus on promoting internal qualities rather than external appearance.
Levine echoed the importance of normalizing a balanced approach to food and body image, emphasizing the need to support youth in creating fulfilling lives beyond physical appearance. He recommended watching for warning signs such as excessive exercise, restrictive eating, and fixation on body image.
In conclusion, the mental health challenges faced by children and adolescents during the pandemic underscore the need for supportive and understanding communities. By fostering an environment of acceptance, providing age-appropriate information, and promoting healthy relationships with food and body image, parents and caregivers can help young people navigate these difficult issues with resilience and self-compassion.