Mental Health Hospitalizations Rose for Teens, Especially Girls, During Pandemic

There was a 22% increase in teenage girls visiting ERs for mental health crises compared to pre-pandemic.
Hospitalizations for eating disorders and suicidal behavior among girls showed a particularly sharp rise.
In contrast, ER visits for mental health issues dropped 9% for teenage boys.
Overall ER visits for mental health increased 7% among young people versus pre-pandemic.
Disruptions in school, less peer contact, and conflict at home may have affected girls more.