The impact of lockdown and the pandemic on people’s mental health is a ‘second wave in itself’, a health expert has warned.
Speaking at a Sefton Council health and well-being board meeting in September, Public Health Consultant Dr McGill said: “The mental health aftermath [of Covid-19] is a second wave in itself.
“Many of us have and are still suffering with anxiety, depression and other illnesses.
“And this disproportionately impacts those more vulnerable and prone to mental health episodes.
“There is also an overlap as many of these communities are also more vulnerable to the virus.”
Analysis from the Centre for Mental Health (CMH) charity suggests as many as 10 million people in England alone could need help with their mental health because of the pandemic.
According to the CMH, two-thirds will be people who need help for existing mental health problems, which have been made worse by Covid-19.
The other third will need care for mental health issues developed during the coronavirus pandemic.
Margaret Jones, Sefton Council’s Director of Public Health, says the pandemic has increased loneliness, and that some groups have been “disproportionately affected”.
She said: “The need for people to isolate has increased loneliness within some households, but groups that have been disproportionately affected include working-age adults living alone, those in poor health, and people in rented accommodation.
“And, the economic impact of lockdown has hit people unequally, causing immediate impacts on mental health.
“Additionally, the mental health impacts on unemployed people have been widespread and severe.
“Information and support can be found on Sefton Council’s website. Other services include Kooth, a free online mental well-being support service available to all children and young people aged 11-25.
“Living Well Sefton is a free service that focuses on supporting people with issues that may be affecting their health and wellbeing.
“And QWell at is an online platform that is available free to education employees, Care Home and Domiciliary staff in Sefton and Council employees.”
People living in Sefton and other parts of the region can access immediate mental health advice and support through Mersey Care’s helpline on 0800 145 6570.
Claire Murdoch, mental health director for the NHS, said: “These uncertain times will have impacted some people over the last few months but taking straightforward, practical steps such as undertaking regular exercise, eating well and making time to talk to friends and loved ones can all help to ease your symptoms.
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“Self-help websites such as can Every Mind Matters can also aid those people going through a tough time and if your symptoms persist, the NHS is here for you – offering video consultations and online support, our mental health crisis hotline, and face-to-face appointments so you can get the help and support you need.”
If your mental or emotional state quickly dips, or you’re worried about someone you know – help is available.
Talk to your GP, or call 111. You can also find your local crisis team here
