There will be huge mental health repercussions from the coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent lockdown restrictions for every section of society, with parents worried about their children’s lack of schooling and social interaction, many workers stuck in isolation at home, and elderly people missing regular contact with their family.
However, new research has suggested that men are the group that will be most negatively impacted by the crisis when it comes to their emotions.
A study by social innovation foundation Nesta and the Competition and Markets Authority was revealed to The Independent recently. It showed that fathers of young children are most stressed out at the moment.
Just under a fifth of people say their financial concerns regarding the virus have affected relationships with relatives and friends in a negative way, due to many people losing jobs or not being able to work while businesses have been forced to close during lockdown.
However, this figure nearly doubles for men aged between 35 and 44 years old, particularly if they have dependent children.
Their concern about money is having a big toll on their mental health, and almost half of this group claim the financial worries as a result of coronavirus has been worse than the impact on their physical health. This is compared with a quarter of the general population who stated this too.
Indeed, the news provider revealed over 40 per cent of dads who have dependent youngsters have struggled with their sleep since the pandemic began, as they have been so preoccupied with their money worries.
While the government has tried to reduce the financial impact on the public by rolling out various packages to support those who have not been able to earn as much, or any, money while on lockdown, many people will still be worried about the future.
Indeed, those who run their own business will be concerned about starting up again while lots of people will be panicking about mass redundancies. Indeed, there is the ongoing threat that many companies will not be able to survive the economic fallout and, subsequently, will be forced to close in the future, leaving many without an income.
The Mental Health Foundation recognises the impact of financial, housing and unemployment stresses during this time, which is why it has revealed some valuable resources for those in need.
A spokesperson for the organisation stated: “These are unprecedented times. Many of us are facing daily challenges relating to the coronavirus epidemic – both in terms of health but also in terms of finance, job security, housing and caring responsibilities.”
Its tips for managing these concerns include using a budgeting tool to control the household finances; finding out what monetary help is available; speaking to banks about mortgage breaks; seeking help from organisations such as The Money Advice Service; taking advantage of free school meals; checking insurance policies for legal advice or cover during this time; and getting in touch with trade unions or charities in your sector that could help.
The group, which launched Mental Health Awareness Week on May 18th, also reminded people to look after themselves by getting enough sleep, cutting down on alcohol and cigarettes, and talking to friends and family.
For professional help during this challenging time, get in touch with our online therapist today.
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