Studies turn focus on the effects of lockdown on mental health

Two new studies are being launched to look into the effects coronavirus is having on mental health and wellbeing.

Glasgow University, in partnership with the Samaritans and the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH), has recruited 3,000 adults from across the UK. The institution will track them using mental health indicators such as anxiety, depression, loneliness and self-harm to understand the impact the pandemic is having. The study will last for six months, allowing researchers to track mental health during and after the lockdown period.

Professorroryo’connor, from the university’s institute of health and wellbeing who is leading the study, said: “We are living through exceptional times that people will find unsettling and leave them uncertain of what the future may bring.

“No-one knows for certain what the impact will be, but by tracking a representative sample of the UK public we will be able to identify who is most vulnerable and what helps to keep people safe and well.”

Dr Elizabeth Scowcroft, head of research at Samaritans, said: “This is a crucial piece of research at a really extraordinary time.”

A team of scientists at Glasgow Caledonian University have meanwhile also launched a study into the impact the pandemic is having on the nation’s mental health.

The investigation in Scotland is being led by GCU head of psychology Dr Kerri Mcpherson.

They are asking people to sign up to be part of the study, if they are living in Scotland and aged over 18. Dr Mcaloney-kocaman said: “We hope to be able to identify things that will help with resilience for our mental health.”