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Care burden and outcomes in young carers during and after the COVID‑19 pandemic:

Psychological distress and cognitive–emotional aspects

Published Date: 5.11.2025

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Theme: Specific groups of carers

Sub-theme: Young carers

Young carers Mental health Japan Quantitative data Survey Cross-sectional study

Verification Statement

This publication / resource is hosted on a publicly available external link. If the full text is not publicly accessible, summary points are included and a contact method for the author(s) is provided, where available.

The summary information presented is based on content submitted by an author or other user
, along with publicly available information about the publication / resource added by the Carer Knowledge Exchange team.

All content is reviewed, edited and approved by the Carer Knowledge Exchange team, in line with our Submission Guidelines.


To report an issue or request a change, please complete our Feedback Form.

 

Theme: Specific groups of carers

Sub-theme: Young carers

View Publication Young carers Mental health Japan Quantitative data Survey Cross-sectional study

Verification Statement

This publication / resource is hosted on a publicly available external link. If the full text is not publicly accessible, summary points are included and a contact method for the author(s) is provided, where available.

The summary information presented is based on content submitted by an author or other user
, along with publicly available information about the publication / resource added by the Carer Knowledge Exchange team.

All content is reviewed, edited and approved by the Carer Knowledge Exchange team, in line with our Submission Guidelines.


To report an issue or request a change, please complete our Feedback Form.

 

Care burden and outcomes in young carers during and after the COVID‑19 pandemic:

Psychological distress and cognitive–emotional aspects

Published Date: 5.11.2025

  • Author/ Authors

    Ziyan Wang, Bing Niu

  • Suggested citation (APA 7th edition)

    Wang, Z., & Niu, B. (2025). Care burden and outcomes in young carers during and after the COVID‑19 pandemic: Psychological distress and cognitive–emotional aspects. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 38823. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-22652-5

Long Summary

This study examines how care burden affects psychological distress and cognitive–emotional outcomes among young carers aged 15–19 in Japan during (2021) and after (2024) the COVID 19 pandemic. Using national online surveys, the study finds that heavier and more complex caregiving is associated with higher psychological distress. Distress was significantly higher during the pandemic but declined afterward. However, both positive and negative emotional responses to caregiving increased post pandemic, reflecting a dual impact. The findings highlight the need for tailored, youth friendly mental health and social support policies, especially during crises.

    Key Messages for Carers


  • Caring can be both challenging and meaningful. Many young carers experience stress, anxiety and tiredness, especially when responsibilities increase or support is limited, but caregiving can also build confidence, skills and resilience. Feeling overwhelmed is not a failure it is a signal that more support is needed. Seeking help from schools, health services, community organisations or trusted adults can make a real difference. Staying connected with friends and taking breaks where possible are important for wellbeing, learning and long-term health.

  • Key Messages for Policy Makers


  • Young carers experience substantial mental health risks, particularly when caregiving is intensive or complex. The COVID 19 pandemic amplified psychological distress, highlighting the need for crisis ready support systems. Policies should recognise young carers early, reduce excessive care burdens, and ensure continuity of mental health services, education accommodations and respite care during emergencies. At the same time, interventions should build on the positive skills caregiving can foster. Tailored, tiered and culturally sensitive support co designed with young carers is essential to reduce isolation, improve wellbeing, and prevent long term disadvantage.

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The Carer Knowledge Exchange is led by Carers NSW and proudly funded by the NSW Government. It was established as a partnership between Carers NSW and the Institute for Public Policy and Governance (IPPG) at the University of Technology Sydney from 2021-2024. We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Australians and Traditional Custodians of the lands where we live, learn and work.