Mental health service demand during the Summer Olympics: literature review

Abstract

Aims and methodEstimates of the impact of the London 2012 Olympic Games on general health service demand have been made. However, there are no formal estimates for mental health demand. Our aim was to conduct a review to identify data on mental health service demand during the previous ten Summer Olympics.ResultsEight relevant papers were identified. Little has been published on mental health demand; however, available data suggest demand will not substantially increase.Clinical implicationsNHS London has no pan-London strategy for mental health services during the Olympics. This may not be unreasonable given the lack of evidence for increased demand during previous Olympics. However, high bed occupancy rates in mental health units in London and other strains on resources may amplify the impact of even small increases in demand on services.