From Isolation to Reintegration: Exploring Student Mental Health and Anxiety in the Return to School Post-COVID-19" Abstract:
1
Institute of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, AlAin, United Arab Emirates
2
Public Health and Epidemiology, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):A2599
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted educational systems worldwide, forcing prolonged school closures, and extended social isolation for adolescents Loades et al., 2020; UNICEF, 2021). This qualitative study explored the psychosocial experiences of secondary school students in the United Arab Emirates returning to in-person schooling after the pandemic, with a focus on mental health, anxiety, and adjustment challenges.
RESULTS:
Data were drawn from 31 in-depth, semi-structured interviews Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis was applied to identify patterns across participants’ narratives (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Five interrelated themes captured the emotional, social, and psychological adjustments experienced during and after prolonged school disruption. The emotional toll of isolation emerged as a dominant theme, with students describing loneliness, sadness, stress, and reduced motivation resulting from separation from peers and school routines. The return to school required rebuilding social confidence, as many participants reported heightened social anxiety, awkwardness, and fear of judgment following extended periods without face-to-face interaction. Digital coping and disconnection reflected the dual role of technology during the pandemic. While online platforms enabled continuity of learning and social contact, they also contributed to distraction, disrupted daily routines, and superficial engagement with schoolwork. In contrast, increased family connection was identified as a protective factor, with many adolescents reporting stronger emotional bonds, improved communication, and greater familial support. Finally, students expressed mixed emotions about returning to normal life, combining relief and excitement with uncertainty, emotional fatigue, and reflection on changed priorities.
CONCLUSIONS:
the findings demonstrate the complex impact of COVID-19 on adolescent mental health, highlighting both vulnerability and resilience. The study underscores the importance of school-based mental health support, peer reconnection, and family engagement during recovery. Beyond COVID-19, the findings emphasize the need for proactive, school-centered mental health programs that can be rapidly implemented during future crises.
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted educational systems worldwide, forcing prolonged school closures, and extended social isolation for adolescents Loades et al., 2020; UNICEF, 2021). This qualitative study explored the psychosocial experiences of secondary school students in the United Arab Emirates returning to in-person schooling after the pandemic, with a focus on mental health, anxiety, and adjustment challenges.
RESULTS:
Data were drawn from 31 in-depth, semi-structured interviews Braun and Clarke’s six-step thematic analysis was applied to identify patterns across participants’ narratives (Braun & Clarke, 2006). Five interrelated themes captured the emotional, social, and psychological adjustments experienced during and after prolonged school disruption. The emotional toll of isolation emerged as a dominant theme, with students describing loneliness, sadness, stress, and reduced motivation resulting from separation from peers and school routines. The return to school required rebuilding social confidence, as many participants reported heightened social anxiety, awkwardness, and fear of judgment following extended periods without face-to-face interaction. Digital coping and disconnection reflected the dual role of technology during the pandemic. While online platforms enabled continuity of learning and social contact, they also contributed to distraction, disrupted daily routines, and superficial engagement with schoolwork. In contrast, increased family connection was identified as a protective factor, with many adolescents reporting stronger emotional bonds, improved communication, and greater familial support. Finally, students expressed mixed emotions about returning to normal life, combining relief and excitement with uncertainty, emotional fatigue, and reflection on changed priorities.
CONCLUSIONS:
the findings demonstrate the complex impact of COVID-19 on adolescent mental health, highlighting both vulnerability and resilience. The study underscores the importance of school-based mental health support, peer reconnection, and family engagement during recovery. Beyond COVID-19, the findings emphasize the need for proactive, school-centered mental health programs that can be rapidly implemented during future crises.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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