Risk and Resilience Factors in Urban American Indian and Alaska Native Youth during the Coronavirus Pandemic

Abstract

American Indians and Alaska Natives suffer disproportionately from poverty and other inequities and are vulnerable to adverse health and socioeconomic effects of COVID-19. Using surveys and interviews (May–July 2020), we examined urban American Indian/Alaska Native adolescents’ (N=50) health and behaviors, family dynamics, community cohesion, and traditional practice participation during COVID-19. About 20% of teens reported clinically significant anxiety and depression, 25% reported food insecurity, and 40% reported poor sleep. Teens also reported high family and community cohesion, and many engaged in traditional practices during this time. Although many teens reported problems, they also emphasized resilience strategies.