More than 1,200 South African adults were polled by pharmaceutical company, Pharma Dynamics, in a survey aimed at understanding how the pandemic has affected mental health in the country.

The results showed that 56% of adults are experiencing higher levels of emotional and psychological stress than they were before the pandemic.

In a statement, Mental Health Portfolio Manager at Pharma Dynamics, Abdurahman Kenny, said that people who previously coped well under pressure are now struggling due to unprecedented stress triggers caused by the pandemic. On the other hand, those with pre-existing mental health conditions may have experienced their symptoms getting worse.

According to Kenny, the majority of the survey’s respondents have had personal experience with the coronavirus, either having contracted the virus themselves, or knowing someone close to them who has. This reported exposure subsequently resulted in heightened anxiety levels.

“We are likely to see much higher rates of mental illness among South Africans post the pandemic and need to increase psychosocial support efforts to avoid a COVID-19 related mental health crisis,” Kenny said.

A large percentage of people experienced work and employment-related stress because of the pandemic, with 53% of respondents reporting that they had either lost their job, taken a pay cut, or had to close their business.

The survey also observed that 68% of respondents are concerned about the impact the pandemic will have on society and the economy. “The disruptions in routine and economic activity that the pandemic has caused has had a devastating impact on mental health,” said Kenny.

Although respondents are aware of their increased stress levels, most have struggled to find a healthy coping mechanism, as roughly 65% of them have admitted to neglecting their health.

Read the full article about mental health impact by Khanyi Mlaba at Global Citizen.