Five national shocks caused lasting mental health decline in Britain

Five major events over the past ten years caused serious and lasting damage to the mental health of people in the United Kingdom, according to the Guardian. Research revealed that political and economic shocks contributed to a sustained decline in national mental wellbeing. [1]

The Guardian reported that the key triggers for increased psychological distress included Brexit, Liz Truss's mini-budget, and the invasion of Ukraine by Russia. Psychological distress was measured by rising numbers of people experiencing depression and anxiety. The first and second coronavirus lockdowns also generated significant surges in mental health distress. [1]

Brexit refers to the official withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union. Liz Truss served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom for fifty days in 2022, becoming the shortest-serving prime minister in British history after stepping down during a government crisis. [2][3]

The findings are published as Professor Peter Fonagy prepares to release the full report of his government-commissioned study, the Guardian reported. [1]