Third-year student Sarina Wong is working closely with Professor Leslie Boehm to conduct academic research on the effects of COVID-19 on the mental health of children in Ontario.
According to both the World Health Organization and the United Nations, the pandemic has had profound effects on mental health with increased stress, isolation, depression and anxiety. Additionally, the pandemic has disrupted critical mental health services in 93% of countries worldwide despite increased demand for mental health support. Preliminary research from Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) suggests that children are amongst the most affected by mental health issues.
Through the Trinity Comprehensive Paper courses, students are able to collaborate with a faculty mentor to produce a publication-quality review article. Trinity launched the course thanks to the generous donation of alumna Anne Steacy (BA ’76). Since then, undergraduate students have had the opportunity to develop their research skills, publishing and presenting their work.
Sarina’s research takes an epidemiological approach to understanding the impact of the pandemic on the mental health of children in Ontario.
“Mental health issues triggered by the pandemic will have lasting implications on society long into the future, and I’m passionate about helping to understand how we can best support children’s mental health needs,” says Sarina.
Sarina is a John H. Whiteside Scholar, Academic Peer Advisor and helped create Bridgespace – a free online learning platform that bridges gaps in campus life created by COVID-19. The site connects university clubs around the world with community organizations, NGOs and business partners. Sarina attributes much of her success to Trinity donors whose contributions have helped to alleviate her financial burden and focus on academics and extra-curricular projects.
“Thank you so much for your generous support. It truly has had a profound impact on my university experience, enabling me to focus my efforts on learning all I can from my classes, engaging fully with the fantastic people at Trinity, and channeling my full energy into clubs, volunteering, research and many more extracurricular projects. These experiences have helped shape who I am—and for that I am grateful.”