An exploratory study on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adolescents' psychosocial well-being in the Kwadukuza community

Introduction: the COVID-19 pandemic severely disrupted adolescents´ daily lives, affecting their psychosocial well-being. This study aimed to explore how the pandemic influenced mental health, social interactions, and coping strategies among adolescents in the KwaDukuza community, South Africa. Methods: a qualitative exploratory study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with sixteen adolescents selected through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke´s six-step framework to identify patterns in their experiences and coping mechanisms. Results: adolescents reported heightened stress, anxiety, depression, social isolation, and grief due to the loss of loved ones. Lockdown restrictions disrupted education and routines, while fear of infection and stigma were prevalent. Despite these challenges, participants demonstrated resilience through family support, spiritual practices, skill development, reading, and lifestyle adaptations. Conclusion: the study highlights the importance of family connectedness, community engagement, and culturally sensitive mental health interventions to strengthen adolescent resilience in under-resourced settings during public health crises.