Mental Health & Covid Report 2020/2021
Download (PDF 1.04 MB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Thurrock designed a survey to reflect the experience of residents during the COVID-19 lockdown periods, and the impacts this has had on their health and mental wellbeing. Residents were contacted by telephone, with a total of 236 conversations taking place. These conversations were semi-structured interviews, with a survey questions prompting wider discussion.
The conversations were also catalysts for residents to be signposted and given information and guidance.
The report indicates that the older cohort engaged seem to lack awareness of mental health. Respondents aged over 60 often noted low mood, anxiety and/or stress, but did not identify these as mental health issues. Those under 60 by contract were more fluent in identifying their mood and feelings as mental health.
The report also found many respondents reporting issues with diet, either gaining weight, eating less healthy or losing appetite. Many respondents also reported drinking more alcohol than usual.