Despite high rates of poor mental health during the pandemic, just one in 20 people (5%) has spoken to a health professional about their symptoms. And concerningly, almost half (45%) say they will not seek medical help in the future. Others plan to wait almost two months (49 days) before coming forward – and one in five say they’re planning to wait until things are “back to normal”.

Rather than confide in others about their mental health, many people have felt under pressure to ‘grin and bear it’ (43%), while others feel that now isn’t the time to make a fuss about mental health (23%) when the country is in crisis.

There’s particular concern over baby boomers, who plan to delay seeking help the longest – 65 days – despite experiencing symptoms, and women, who will delay 15 days longer than men.³

People are being urged to come forward with their concerns. Early diagnosis is proven to significantly improve outcomes. Bupa’s Mental Health Direct Access offers fast access to a specialist without the need for a GP referral

Pablo Vandenabeele, Clinical Director for Mental Health at Bupa UK Insurance said: “There’s no getting away from the fact that this has been a really tough period for our mental health. High levels of anxiety and depression have been reported while the country has been in lockdown, and as we remain in a period of uncertainty and change, mental health professionals expect these issues to continue.

“But it’s extremely concerning to see that so many people don’t feel that they can come forward to discuss their symptoms – either with friends or family or with a health professional. We can’t simply wait and hope these issues will pass. Early diagnosis is so important for improving outcomes, and with the number of services and resources available people shouldn’t suffer in silence or think that nothing can be done.

“If you or a loved one are struggling with your mental health, it’s important to seek medical help at the right time. People should not be waiting nearly three months to come forward. It can be hard to distinguish between what’s ‘normal’ for you and what may be a symptom of a more significant mental health issue, and I often recommend that people try to think about whether their symptoms have been affecting them for two weeks or more, and if so, to seek help.”

Experts are also warning that more people may be affected by poor mental health as lockdown measures are lifted. Over half of adults (52%) are worried about what life will be like as we move towards a ‘new normal’ and a similar number feel anxious about the prospect of using public transport or being around lots of people.  Research also shows that 65% of people are anxious about returning to the office⁵, and one in four expect their mental wellbeing to worsen as normal life resumes.

Study from Bupa UK