Thoughts and Experiences with Mental Health, Substance Use, and Crime during the COVID-19 Lockdown

Raqota Berger

Raqota Berger California State University

Keywords: Mental Health; Stress; Depression; Substance Use; Anxiety; Crime; Victimization; Domestic Violence, Covid-19.

Abstract

The COVID-19 lockdown has taken a major toll on people’s lives. This study set out to explore how the shutdown has affected families and psychological health. Data were collected from 637 respondents. Statistical findings revealed that the majority of people were experiencing increased levels of depression, stress, anxiety, and loneliness. The majority of respondents also felt that various social problems, such as drug and alcohol use, domestic violence, and victimization, were also worsening because of the crisis. There was also a general belief that there would be an increasing need for mental health services across society. Even though the majority of participants felt that this pandemic has placed a major strain on their families, nearly 8 out 10 stated that their family relationships have improved. Those from the lower-class seem to have been impacted the most (e.g., stress, depressive symptoms, anxiety) and have the highest concerns about crime and violence. Women were also more likely than men to be experiencing increased mental health issues and to be concerned about larger social problems. Other illuminating findings were found concerning ethnicity and age in regard to mental health and social problems (e.g., crime, victimization, domestic violence). This study has brought forth additional findings to help elucidate how the ongoing COVID-19 stay-at-home orders are affecting people’s lives and overall functioning.

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References

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