In this episode of Learning Disrupted, titled "Students Speak on Mental Health During and After the Pandemic," Thomas Gascon delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of high school and college students. We hear interviews with students in early 2021, about a year into the pandemic. These interviews provide first-hand accounts from adolescents aged 13–18 who experienced significant life transitions, such as moving from middle to high school or navigating critical high school years, as the pandemic was happening. These students reflect on how the pandemic altered their sleep schedules, routines, and overall mental well-being, with many reporting increased stress and emotional struggles. The discussion broadens to include the experiences of college students, who encountered many of the same mental health challenges as their younger counterparts. These students grappled with heightened anxiety stemming from the unpredictability of their educational journeys, depression brought on by prolonged isolation, and a pervasive sense of loneliness as they navigated remote learning and social restrictions. Thomas notes that the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic led some prospective college students to delay their enrollment entirely.The episode also incorporates valuable insights from a research study focusing on nursing students in the Rocky Mountains region, shedding light on their diverse experiences during the pandemic. Through in-depth interviews, these students shared their perspectives on how the shift to remote learning influenced both their academic and personal lives. On one hand, some students expressed appreciation for the increased flexibility and accessibility of online education, which allowed them to balance their studies with other responsibilities more effectively. However, numerous nursing students reported feeling deeply disconnected from their instructors and peers, saying that a lack of direct interaction left them feeling isolated and unsupported. This lack of engagement not only hindered their academic progress but also took a toll on their mental health, as they struggled to maintain motivation and a sense of belonging in a remote environment.Thomas concludes the episode with a reflection on the impact of the pandemic on today’s students. He explains that the challenges faced during the pandemic have left a lasting imprint on the education and emotional well-being of students at all levels. These experiences, he argues, have fundamentally altered how students engage with their education, peers, and support systems. In light of this, Thomas calls on educational institutions to recognize the needs of their student communities. He advocates for changes that prioritize mental health and well-being, including creating more accessible counseling and mental health resources. By addressing the gaps and challenges brought to light by the pandemic, Thomas believes schools and universities can better equip students not only to recover but to thrive.

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