As a result of social isolation caused by lockdown, the health impacts of Covid-19, and the broader impact on the economy and society, mental health is an area of particular concern. Longitudinal analysis showed a rising number of people experiencing mental health problems, with some of the most significant impacts on groups who are already marginalised. These include ethnic minorities; young people; isolated older people; women; single parents; transgender people; and those with pre-existing or long-term mental or physical health conditions. People who are unemployed or in insecure employment were also more likely to suffer mental health problems.
The Population Needs Assessment cited ONS research from April and September 2021, where participants were asked about the impact of Covid-19 on multiple aspects of their lives, including mental health and wellbeing. Though there is no disaggregated data for ethnic minorities and the sample sizes were small, North East Scotland (including Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire) showed high levels of loneliness and anxiety, as well as low levels of happiness.
ONS research can be found online: Link.
Data Source: 2021, Community Planning Aberdeen. Link.
Category: Qualitative Data
Topics: Aberdeen City Covid-19 Ethnicity Health Mental Health