In the pandemic era, mental health has been tenuous for many. Major stressors have come in quick succession, with little reprieve: a deadly virus and economic upheaval that led to job and income loss. Prolonged isolation, increased bereavement, limited access to mental healthcare and seismic socio-political events have compounded myriad pressures; across the board people have experienced heightened levels of fear and anxiety.

The effects are widespread: 51% of respondents to a seven-country survey published by the International Committee of the Red Cross in October 2020 said the pandemic had negatively impacted their mental health. Figures gathered by the US Census Bureau and published in April 2021 showed that adults with recent symptoms of an anxiety or depressive disorder increased from 36% in August 2020 to 42% in February 2021. Researchers are still collecting data on pandemic-related mental-health impacts as Covid-19 uncertainties and outcomes continue to affect our daily lives.

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