Intersectional Disparities in Digital Health and Mental Health Service Use Among US Youth During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-Sectional Analysis of a National Survey.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Sexual minority youth, particularly sexual minority youth of color, report elevated mental health challenges and persistent barriers to care. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these disparities and catalyzed a shift toward digital health and digital mental health services. This rapid transition has made it challenging to understand digital exclusion and the digital divide.

Objective

This cross-sectional study identified the prevalence of digital health and digital mental health service use among US adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic and examined heterogeneity by sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and their intersection.

Methods

Nationally representative data were obtained from the 2021 Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey (N=7705). Weighte

SUBMITTER: Romanelli M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12603589 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature