Study Reveals Accelerated Brain Aging in Teens Due to COVID-19 Lockdowns

University of Washington researchers find pandemic restrictions hastened brain maturation, particularly in girls

Teens' brains, especially girls', aged significantly faster during lockdowns, with girls' brains aging 4.2 years faster on average, boys' 1.4 years.
Accelerated brain aging linked to increased stress from isolation, lack of social interaction, and disrupted routines.
Study found significant cortical thinning in 30 brain regions for girls and 2 regions for boys.
Researchers recommend parents stay connected and monitor teens for signs of depression and anxiety.
Long-term impacts of accelerated brain aging remain uncertain, prompting need for further research.