UN chief urges govts to address mental health needs arising from Covid-19

The UN said a long-term upsurge in the number and severity of mental health problems is likely and warned that if action isn't taken Covid-19 has the seeds of a major mental health crisis

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged governments, civil society and health authorities on Wednesday to urgently address mental health needs arising from the coronavirus pandemic, warning that psychological suffering is increasing.

The UN chief said in a video message launching a policy briefing that after decades of neglect and under-investment in mental health services, the Covid-19 pandemic is now hitting families and communities with additional mental stress.

He pointed to grief at the loss of loved ones, shock at the loss of jobs, isolation and restrictions on movement, difficult family dynamics, and uncertainty and fear for the future.

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