Impact of covid-19 on mental health in ireland: Evidence to date

ABSTRACT

There is widespread concern about the impact of Covid-19 and associated restrictions on mental health. Evidence to date shows that the combined effect of the Covid-19 pandemic and associated restrictions is that approximately one person in every five in the general population in Ireland (and elsewhere) has significantly increased psychological distress (e.g. anxiety, depression). Risk factors include being female and living alone. Rates of significant psychological distress among healthcare workers are approximately double those in the general population. To ameliorate this, healthcare staff require careful rostering, ability to take leave, organisational support from employers and, where necessary, “psychological first aid”. Covid-19 infection itself affects mental health both immediately (e.g. depression, anxiety) and, most likely, in the longer term, especially among those hospitalised (e.g. post-traumatic stress, post-viral syndromes). People with pre-existing mental illness are at significantly increased risk of Covid-19 infection and require particular support to maintain wellness during the pandemic.