The implications of COVID-19 for mental health and substance use

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has had both short- and long-term implications for mental health and substance use, especially for groups at risk of new or exacerbated mental health disorders and those facing barriers to accessing care. History has shown that the mental health impact of disasters outlasts the physical impact, suggesting today’s elevated mental health needs will continue well beyond the coronavirus outbreak itself. The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) hosted a Mental Health Symposium aimed at obtaining the perspectives of early career researchers. The theme of the symposium on ‘The Implications of COVID-19 for Mental Health and Substance Use’ sought to increase knowledge and build capacity in mental health research amongst early career researchers. As policymakers continue to discuss further actions to alleviate the burdens of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be important to consider how the increased need for mental health and substance use services will likely persist long term, even if new cases and deaths due to the novel coronavirus subside.