Lockdown loneliness led to an increase in anxiety and depression in people over 50
Older people’s mental health declined during the Covid-19 lockdowns as their loneliness contributed to a rise in anxiety and depression, according to a study. Researchers at the University of Exeter and King’s College London studied data from more than 3,000 people aged over 50. They said loneliness emerged as a key factor linked to worsening symptoms of depression and anxiety. And a decrease in physical activity since the start of the pandemic was also associated with worsening symptoms of depression and anxiety. Women were also more likely to be struggling with their mental health, as were retired people. ‘A huge issue in society’ Dr Byron Creese at the…