It’s hard to believe that five years have passed since the world shut down in response to COVID-19. Life may have returned to a new kind of normal. However, for many, the emotional and psychological impact of the pandemic still lingers. The way we work, connect, and think about our mental health has changed—sometimes for the better, but often in ways that continue to challenge us.
At Oxfordshire Mind, we see these struggles firsthand. While mental health was already a pressing issue before 2020, the pandemic accelerated a crisis, particularly for young people. Reports show that mental health scores for under-35s have plummeted, and worryingly, they haven’t bounced back. This isn’t just about feeling low—it’s about deep, lasting changes in how people experience anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and difficulty staying connected to reality.
The Long Shadow of COVID
For many, the lockdown years felt like hitting pause on life. But unlike a movie, we didn’t just press play again and pick up where we left off. The lack of social interaction disrupted education, and isolation had long-term consequences.
Young adults, in particular, have been hit the hardest. A United Nations report has even suggested that youth is no longer the happiest stage of life. Why? A mix of social media pressures, increased isolation, and a shift in how we experience relationships, work, and education.
This mental health decline isn’t just an individual struggle—it has wider consequences. More young people are stepping straight out of university into long-term sickness leave due to mental health struggles. That’s not just heartbreaking; it’s also reshaping the workforce and economy in ways we haven’t fully grappled with yet.
The Ongoing Battle with Long COVID
For some, the pandemic isn’t just a memory—it’s still part of their daily reality. People with Long COVID are experiencing unpredictable health issues that affect everything from energy levels to brain function, and many feel forgotten. The emotional toll of managing an invisible, chronic illness—often without clear treatment plans—is immense. And yet, support for these individuals remains patchy.
What This Looks Like in Oxfordshire
Closer to home, Oxfordshire is reflecting these national and global trends. We’ve seen a steady increase in people seeking mental health support, especially for anxiety and depression. Young people feel more disconnected, and the rise of remote learning and working has only added to this. Many of us have lost the ‘natural’ social moments that used to be built into our days, leaving us feeling lonelier than ever.
But we also know that solutions exist. We see hope in the small, everyday actions that rebuild community and support mental well-being.
Where Do We Go From Here?
If the past five years have taught us anything, it’s that mental health matters. Not just in a crisis, but always. So what can we do to help ourselves and each other?
- Make Mental Health a Priority – Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength. Whether it’s talking to a friend, reaching out to a professional, or joining a support group, small steps make a difference.
- Reconnect with Others – Loneliness is one of the biggest drivers of poor mental health. Meeting for a coffee, walking with a friend, or checking in on someone can be decisive.
- Encourage Openness – The more we talk about mental health, the more we normalise asking for help. If someone tells you they’re struggling, listen without judgment. Sometimes, just being heard is enough.
- Rethink Social Media Use – We’re all guilty of scrolling endlessly, but the reality is that too much time online can negatively impact mental health. Setting boundaries, following accounts that uplift you, and taking breaks from the screen can help.
- Advocate for Better Support – Mental health support needs to be better in workplaces, schools, or healthcare. If you see something that isn’t working, speak up. Change happens when people push for it.
The Road Ahead
The pandemic changed us all. Some of those changes were painful; we’re still learning how to heal. But suppose there’s one thing we’ve learned. Resilience comes from connection, kindness, and a willingness to keep moving forward together.
At Oxfordshire Mind, we’re here for that journey. If you or someone you know needs support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Five years later, the mental health conversation is more important than ever. Let’s keep it going.