The evidence so far suggests that at a population level mental health and wellbeing worsened at the start of the pandemic in spring 2020. This was followed by a recovery in the summer of 2020 as lockdown was eased, but not to pre-pandemic baselines. More recent evidence suggests a further decline in population mental health in the winter of 2020/21.
There is no evidence of changes in rates of self-harm or suicide since the start of the pandemic, although there is some evidence of increases in self-harming thoughts and behaviours in some risk groups. This includes those who have experienced abuse or have financial worries.
The evidence suggests that the mental health of certain groups of people have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. These groups cover a wide range of the population and include: young adults; adults with pre-existing mental or physical health issues; socially isolated people; adults with low household income, financial worries and/or who experienced a loss of income; Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) men; those who were recommended to shield; carers; and frontline health and care staff.
Many of these are groups that were at higher risk of mental health problems before the pandemic, demonstrating the potential of the pandemic to increase mental health inequalities.
The total number of GP diagnoses of depression decreased in the pandemic. This is concerning because undiagnosed depression is risk factor for suicide.
If you are struggling with your mental health, where can you go for information and support?
The NHS has produced a number of resources to help look after our mental wellbeing during the coronavirus pandemic. You can find out more about ways to keep your mind healthy below: