Arendal Week 2021: A whole year at home. Mental health of children and adolescents during and after the pandemic

How has the mental health of children and adolescents been affected over the course of the pandemic, as well as by it? Will we see a lonely generation come out of it? Or have youngsters just found it boring?  

During the pandemic, decision-makers in the Nordic countries have been repeating their mantra about the need to shield children and young people. However, in practice this has varied in the different countries: Denmark introduced home schooling for a whole year, while Sweden kept schools open throughout. Norway has chosen to take the middle road. Leisure time has also been affected by a ban on exercise sessions and gatherings. We keep hearing how Nordic politicians will attempt to target those who need additional support. 

And they tell us that it is crucial. What has it really been like to be young during the pandemic? That is a story that our young people should tell themselves.

• Nina Sandberg, Nordic Council
• Kristin Oudmayer, UNICEF Norway
• Martine Antonsen, Head of Mental Helse Ungdom

Moderator: Lage Nøst, UNICEF