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Healthwatch Cheshire East and Healthwatch Cheshire West designed a survey investigating the effect of the pandemic on people’s mental health.

56 people took the time to share their feedback and experiences.

Most respondents said they relied on their friends and family to manage their mental health. Many people said they would like to see easier access to counselling sessions and longer courses available for those who need it, in addition to more mental health support at a community-based level.

34% of respondents rated their mental health as generally very good, whilst 25% of total respondents said their mental health has got significantly worse during the pandemic and 59% said their mental health has stayed the same. Individuals shared that they feel their mental health impacts their life regarding sleeping, socialising, concentration, working and confidence.

Respondents were asked how they feel the COVID-19 pandemic is currently affecting their mental health and wellbeing. 23 respondents said that they worry about the health of their friends and family, 18 respondents worry about their own health and 17 respondents are concerned about the effects of new COVID variants.

25 respondents have received an official mental health diagnosis. The majority of these people received their diagnosis over a year ago. Individuals shared that they would like to see their GPs face-to-face and that there is concern that medications are overprescribed rather than offering signposting to support groups.

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2020220330_Cheshire west & east_healthwatch cheshire citizens focus panel.pdf