Determining the relationship between loneliness and depression in adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the present study is to determine the relationship between loneliness and depression felt by adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design and Methods: The study sample consisted of 423 adolescents who volunteered to participate in the study. All participants had internet access and the cognitive ability to express themselves. The participants filled out the Google Documents form that included the “Socio-demographic Data Form,” “Children's Depression Inventory,” and “Short-form UCLA Loneliness Scale” to collect data. Findings: It was determined that the depression inventory total mean score of the adolescents participating in the study was 55.15 ± 2.88 (high) and the loneliness scale total mean score was 16.43 ± 4.93 (medium). A statistically positive high correlation was found between the depression total mean scores and the loneliness total mean scores of the adolescents (p < 0.05). As the loneliness levels of the adolescents increased, their depression levels increased. Practice Implications: Adolescents were more likely to experience mental disorders such as loneliness and depression during and after the pandemic. Governments should focus on the mental health of adolescents in the management of COVID-19. Clinical services should plan and implement prevention activities, support programs, and services to replace early diagnosis and intervention.