More than a year into the pandemic, its effects are still felt by all – for working parents, students, young professionals, carers, seniors, or children, Covid-19 has left in its trail a considerable crisis in mental and physical health. Dr Adrian James, a British psychiatrist, told The Guardian “The pandemic has been catastrophic for mental health and its devastating impact will be with us for years”. Studies and researchers are looking into the long-term effects of this worldwide situation; let’s examine their findings.
The toll of the pandemic has, depending on communities, uncovered significant inequalities in mental health. A study conducted by Rethink Mental Health between April and May 2020 found that 79% of people living with pre-existing mental illness thought their mental health had worsened due to the pandemic. The same research revealed that 42% of people interviewed felt their mental health had worsened due to a lack of support from dedicated services. As the access to services has declined over the pandemic, people with long-term physical conditions and mental health problems became more at risk. When the nation-wide restrictions were put in place, we saw a drastic reduction in primary care contacts for many conditions such as diabetes, eating-disorders, or heart failure.
All generations have been affected. Nearly 20% of adults were likely to have experienced some form of depression, double the pre-pandemic rate. For young children, the reduction of social interactions is one of their main worries; 80% of young people said not spending time with friends has had a negative impact, and 60% answered they felt alone often or sometimes. Being quarantined at home, without the coping mechanisms school and hobbies provided, was a great source of unhappiness for all.
As restrictions are now easing, we’ve been seeing an increase of post-lockdown anxiety. After spending so long away from social spots, it’s no surprise going back to open, crowded spaces can be overwhelming. In May 2021, Maria Badmus, a recent graduate now midwife from east London, spoke about her anxiety to Radio 1: “I know a lot of people are saying after lockdown they’re going to be really ready to socialise because they’ve not had the opportunity in a while, I don’t think that will be the case for me”.
However, these are ways to work on and improve your mental health. On the topic of social anxiety, the charity Mind has compiled a simple guide on how to manage your feelings. Practising mindfulness, sharing your feelings with people you trust, or journaling are some activities discussed on their website. If you’re in need of support, or looking for tips on how to regulate your mental health, here are useful resources for you to check out:
https://www.healthinmind.org.uk/
https://new.eastsussex.gov.uk/social-care
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/coronavirus/
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/
https://www.youngminds.org.uk/professional/resources/
Sports can also be a great way to improve your mental health, so if you’re able to get active, then do! We have plenty of sessions running 6 days a week, and all of them are inclusive. No matter what you’re going through or how you’re feeling, they’ll always be a place for you at Defiant Sports. We have a session every Tuesday dedicated to art as well, which can be a relaxing and mindful way to improve your mental health. If you’d like to know more about our sessions, check out our timetable or get in touch!
As always, stay defiant!
#TeamDefiant