Katie Yau

Researcher

Dear friend,

With the publication of the Darzi review and its concerning, yet unsurprising, conclusion that the NHS is in “serious trouble”, our response highlights the need for system-wide change to robustly address the deep-seated issues. The review is clear that the nation’s mental health has deteriorated significantly in recent years. This month we’ve been digging deeper into this reality.

Today we’ve published a new report exploring the lasting impact that Covid-19 has had on many people’s mental health, how it has exacerbated health inequalities among people living with severe mental illness, and the mounting pressure on services to meet these needs. Similarly, our research on the ongoing cost-of-living crisis highlights the profound damage being done to people’s wellbeing, as many struggle to get by at the expense of their health.

As we continue to work towards building a mentally healthier nation, we thank you for your continued support and welcome you to apply to join our Board to fight for this cause together.

Covid-19 and the nation’s mental health: the evidence four years on

This report explores what we know so far about the wide-ranging and profound mental health impacts of the pandemic. It finds that Covid-19 caused a collective trauma, from the immediate effects of isolation, bereavement and fear to the longer-term trauma of health care workers, and the psychological legacy among children and young people of disrupted education.

Space to grow

Being in nature can be great for our mental health. But communities who are more likely to experience poor mental health as a result of poverty and racism tend to have less access to green space. In this report we explore how a new community garden in Tottenham - the legacy of our 2023 Chelsea Flower Show garden - is supporting the mental wellbeing of local residents.

Just living and coping

This report explores the profound impact the cost-of-living crisis is having on people’s mental health. The strain of rising bills, skipping meals and working longer hours in low-paid jobs has led to severe anxiety, isolation and hopelessness, with the biggest impacts among people living in the deepest poverty. The report calls for urgent government action to address the severe hardship many people are facing.

Why we need mental health social workers

Penny East, External Relations Director at Think Ahead, tells us about the vital yet often overlooked role that social workers play in supporting people’s mental health.

Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Soundcloud. Read the full transcript here.

We're looking for two exceptional people to join our Board and help us continue to fight for social justice in mental health. We are keen to increase the diversity of our Board members and are open to a range of ways of including and supporting you to make this happen. Applications close 30 September.

One year on, the need to build A Mentally Healthier Nation is more urgent than ever

by Ed Davie

Advancing change for Black maternal mental health: progress and thoughts so far

by Sandra Igwe

The Darzi Review and its implications for mental health

by Andy Bell

Illuminating the invisible: Bringing Black mental health and suicidality out of the shadows

by Chris Frederick