How are you coping with the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic? March - April 2020
Download (PDF 862.9 KB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Cumbria, Lancashire, Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen undertook research into the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. The survey ran from 23 March to 26 April 2020 and had 305 responses.
Initially, the reality of lockdown was unknown, but gradually as the weeks progressed it started to take its toll with some people feeling severely anxious, stressed or depressed. Throughout the weeks there have been concerns about the future and the financial impact of job losses, being furloughed or losing a business or state benefits. As time rolled on and families continued to follow instructions to stay at home many struggled to maintain harmony within the household while others became reliant on other people and lost their independence.
There was a rise in the number of people reporting that they had been ill, beginning in week 2, and in those who were finding it difficult to look after the vulnerable. Most people were concerned about their own and other people’s health and about what the future will bring, wishing that the pandemic was over and life could get back to normal.
Respondents continued to maintain social distancing and most felt that they were managing this ok but missed family and friends. People looked after their physical health through exercise and healthy eating and tried to maintain their emotional and mental health through a combination of approaches including acceptance of the situation.
Around one in ten respondents continued to struggle with their mental health. Most respondents to this survey are managing to cope but finding it a challenge to be in lockdown. Specifically, this survey has highlighted the minority who are disproportionately affected by the pandemic and lockdown. These were mainly those who were already struggling with mental health issues or pre-existing medical conditions, as well as those who were (and still are) caring for elderly relatives or their own children who have learning difficulties or autism.