Anticipating Stress During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Mental Health Among Latinx Young Adults

Abstract

We examined the association of anticipatory negative consequences related to the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of Latinx young adults. Data are from a community-based study with first- and second-generation immigrant, Latinx young adults (18–26 years old). Participants completed an online survey about mental health and anticipated personal and family-related consequences due to the pandemic. Regression models examined the effects of anticipated consequences on risk of clinically significant mental health symptoms. Latinx young adults anticipated moderate levels of negative consequences during the pandemic, including expected illness, economic strain, and psychosocial concerns. Anticipating psychosocial concerns was associated with serious psychological distress, whereas anticipating economic hardship had a limited effect on somatization and anxiety symptoms. Probability of contracting COVID-19 illness was not associated with mental health symptoms. Addressing the anticipation of negative consequences is important because these consequences threaten mental health and wellbeing. Strategies are needed to alleviate continuing pandemic-related stressors among Latinx communities to promote mental health.