The lockdown has been a heavy blow in terms of mental health. Arts and health projects cannot put all that right, but they can help people cope and recover, says François Matarasso.
On 15 May, just eight weeks into the lockdown imposed to contain the spread of Covid-19, the Royal College of Psychiatrists warned of a ‘tsunami’ of mental illness to come. A survey of more than 1,300 doctors reported a 43% rise in urgent referrals and a similar fall in attendance at routine appointments. The College’s concern was that fear of coronavirus was keeping patients away from the vital services providing regular support, with a consequential increase in crises and emergency admissions. They also report evidence of the lockdown’s effects on people with no previous experience of mental health problems... Keep reading on The Baring Foundation
On 15 May, just eight weeks into the lockdown imposed to contain the spread of Covid-19, the Royal College of Psychiatrists warned of a ‘tsunami’ of mental illness to come. A survey of more than 1,300 doctors reported a 43% rise in urgent referrals and a similar fall in attendance at routine appointments. The College’s concern was that fear of coronavirus was keeping patients away from the vital services providing regular support, with a consequential increase in crises and emergency admissions. They also report evidence of the lockdown’s effects on people with no previous experience of mental health problems... Keep reading on The Baring Foundation