The BMJ examines mental health during the coronavirus pandemic in a recent review. The analysis of 137 studies from high-income European and Asian nations revealed that, on average, people have demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of this unprecedented crisis.
The research revealed that overall mental health and anxiety symptoms had not worsened significantly; however, some groups were more affected than others. Women, the elderly, university students, and members of sexual or gender minorities were more likely than other groups to experience a decline in mental health.
According to the Canadian researchers who conducted the study, this could be a result of their occupations and roles within their families. They also noted that governments must continue ensuring that those in need have access to mental health services.
Dr. Gemma Knowles of King’s College London stated that while this study demonstrates a high level of resilience among the general population, there are still certain groups that are experiencing the pandemic’s effects more than others.
Separate NHS statistics indicate that between 2020-21 and 2021-22, the number of children in contact with mental health services increased by nearly 30%, to nearly a million. Also, according to a survey conducted by the mental-health charity Mind in 2021, approximately one-third of adults and adolescents reported that their mental health had significantly deteriorated since March 2020.
The chair of the British Psychological Society’s division of clinical psychology, Dr. Roman Raczka, stated that more research is required among people with health problems in deprived areas. He emphasised the significance of adequately funding mental health services in order to provide the required assistance.
The majority of people have demonstrated remarkable resiliency throughout the coronavirus pandemic, according to a new review conducted by The BMJ. Although general mental health and anxiety symptoms have been minimal to small, women, the elderly, university students, and members of sexual or gender minorities have experienced a greater deterioration in mental health. Separate NHS statistics indicate that the number of children in contact with mental health services has increased significantly over the past year, and according to a survey conducted by Mind, one-third of adults and adolescents report that their mental health has deteriorated significantly since March 2020. Clearly, additional research is required to adequately address the various mental health issues caused by the pandemic and to ensure that services are adequately funded to provide the necessary support.
