Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Italian students' mental health and relationships: differences between adolescent males and females

Background: The negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of young people have been reported, often with possible differences between the sexes. This study explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the differences in mental health status and healthy behaviors between adolescent males and females. Methods: An online questionnaire exploring sociodemographic characteristics, living conditions, mental health, behaviors, and relationships during the implementation of the COVID-19 social restriction measures, was administered to 16-18 years old high school students living in the metropolitan area of Turin. The World Health Organization-5 Well-Being Index (WHO-5) questionnaire was used to evaluate self-perceived psychological health status. Descriptive analyses of the sample were carried out by sex. Chi-squared test and the associated P value were evaluated. The spatial sign method was used to assess multivariate differences by sex. Results: Seventy-two Italian high school students completed the questionnaire. Sixty-eight percent of the students reported psychological problems, more often females (86% vs. 50%). Those living with multiple cohabitants and in dwellings with less personal space reported lower well-being. Females were also more likely to report stress when talking about COVID-19, difficulties in concentration and in falling asleep, daytime sleepiness, less physical activity, and concerns about losing control of eating. Finally, females spent more time with family members and, compared to males, found it harder to spend time and share experiences with friends and schoolmates. Conclusions: The pandemic has greatly impacted adolescents in terms of their mental well-being, routines, relationships with friends, and sleeping and eating patterns. Females reported more stress, boredom, bad mood, eating concerns, reduced relationships with friends, and possible difficulty in falling asleep than did males. These issues should be addressed when developing and promoting support programs, particularly at school.