A new study from the University of Washington reveals that COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns may have led to premature aging of teen brains. Scientists found that the cerebral cortex, which controls the higher brain functions such as decision-making, thinned more rapidly than expected.
In girls, the premature aging was more pronounced, their brain scans showed thinning in 30 regions, compared to just two in boys. The stress of isolation without regular peer or other social contact during lockdowns likely contributed to increased anxiety, depression and behavioral problems.
According to Patricia Kuhl, co-director and lead researcher at I-LABS, The greater influence on girls could be due to differences in the importance of social interaction for girls versus boys
While the long-term consequences remain unclear, experts say the impact was significant, but may not be permanent if social connections and mental health recovery improve. The findings align with other research linking pandemic disruptions to both childhood trauma and potential long-term mental health problems. Although challenges persist, particularly for teenage girls, many young people appear to be rebounding as social interactions return.
