What the Research Tells Us About COVID’s Impact on Mental Health
By Rachel Middendorf, Psy.D.
While this may be no surprise, we have seen an unprecedented rise in mental health symptoms and disorders since the start of Covid-19. Its impact on mental health is quite clear from the many research articles coming out in recent months. Literature shows 75% of people ages 18-24 and 52% of people ages 25-44 reported experiencing at least one mental health symptom—and we have seen impacts on nearly every aspect of mental health.
Unsurprisingly, we have seen a sharp increase in the number of people experiencing anxiety. Recent research shows 1 in 3 adults are reporting symptoms of anxiety, which is three times the number of individuals who reported such symptoms in previous years. Many of us have experienced this increase, particularly related to the uptick in Covid cases, as well as other negative impacts. In one finding, more than 53% of people reported that Covid has negatively affected their mental health and has led to an increase in their worry and stress.
Similarly, 1 in 3 adults are reporting symptoms of depression, which is four times the number of individuals who reported such symptoms in previous years. Along with this, we are also seeing an increase in suicidal thoughts. Many are reporting the Covid effects of social isolation, hopelessness and loneliness on their mental health. Again, some of these negative effects show themselves through an increase in people experiencing symptoms of depression.
In addition, research shows an increase in people who are experiencing trauma, and 1 in 4 of those are attributing this to Covid. Being isolated, losing a loved one or being afraid of losing a loved one, and watching those we love suffer, are contributing factors. As a result of their struggles to cope with the pandemic’s mental health impacts, many people are turning to less healthy coping
mechanisms, such as increased substance use.
While these recent research findings give us some information about the impact of Covid on mental health right now, we will need more research to understand the pandemic’s long-term mental health impacts after it ends. Future research will help us understand if the current increase in mental health symptoms since Covid will persist over time, or if we will see these numbers decline again. There is still much we don’t know about the effects of Covid that will need to be monitored over time.
So, what does all of this mean for us?
In light of these findings, it is clear even in our isolation we are not alone in our reactions to the worst health crisis the world has experienced in more than a century. Now more than ever, we must find safe ways to practice self-care and engage with our social circles. This can be as simple as cooking a good meal, watching a favorite TV show, or setting up a virtual game night with friends. We need to take care of ourselves and try to get through this together. If you find yourself or a member of your community struggling with mental health, reach out to a friend or a professional who can help.