Into psychological and social effects of Covid-19

UCL has launched a study into the psychological and social effects of Covid-19 in the UK. Researchers are aiming to recruit a large sample of adults living in the UK to help understand the effects of coronavirus and social distancing measures on individuals. They will then use the data to help them to track trajectories of mental health and loneliness in the UK over the coming weeks by identifying which groups are most at risk and to understand the effects of any potentially protective activities people could be engaging in. "This is a very distressing and challenging time, with people having to cope with worries about family, friends, work, and finances as well as increasing numbers of people having to enter full isolation. However, it's vital that people stay at home," said the study's lead author, Dr Daisy Fancourt (UCL Behavioural Science & Health). "This research will help us to understand what psychological and social challenges people are facing and what factors can protect against negative effects on mental health. The data will be analysed in real time to inform the support people are given and the advice about how to stay well at home.