This series of briefings address significant issues that are emerging in the UK as a result of Covid-19 that impact on the work of community investment. In each one, we have brought together available evidence to help you think about and plan future strategies and how resources can be directed. This briefing covers mental health. 

The current situation

In the UK, mental health and wellbeing are important issues. An estimated one in six people report suffering from a common mental health problem each week, whilst prescriptions for antidepressants nearly doubled between 2008 and 2018.

Social housing residents are disproportionately more likely to experience poor mental health: one in three people who live in social housing have a mental health issue.

The UK population is suffering from high levels of psychological distress, particularly for women, ethnic minority groups and key workers.

The evidence suggests that the mental health impact of the current period will be significant, but short-lived for the majority. What’s critical is in facilitating services that support people so that these short-lived mental health issues don’t become long-term issues.