Research indicates that more people are concerned about their finances than they are about contracting the coronavirus. According to researchers from University College London (UCL), nearly four in 10 people (38%) are concerned about their finances, up from 32% in January and the highest level since the start of the pandemic.
That compares with 33% of those concerned about Covid-19, down from 40% in January, according to a social survey on Covid-19. Researchers said the changes are likely to reflect concerns about the cost of living crisis, while the removal of legal restrictions in England has affected how people view the coronavirus.
The findings are based on a survey of 28,495 people from March 21 to 27 in the United Kingdom. It also found that fewer people felt in control of their finances in March than in October last year (56% vs. 63%).
Working-age adults were twice as likely to report anxiety as older adults. The summer of 2021 will also see a monthly decrease in the level of happiness and life satisfaction.
About 49% said they feel in control of their mental health, down from 54% six months ago. The survey showed that the proportion of people with symptoms of anxiety and depression is at an all-time high in 11 months.
Lead author Dr. Daisy Vincourt of the UCL Institute of Epidemiology and Health said: ‘These findings may indicate that our return to a more ‘normal’ life has not delivered all the benefits people expected for mental health. But it is also worth noting that the cost of living crisis occurred in recent months.
“Financial concerns have grown, and people are now more concerned about finances from Covid-19. “This indicates that new psychological stressors are becoming dominant in individuals.”
Dr Vancourt said the significant decrease in the number of people concerned about contracting the virus stems from the decrease in the number of people following previous advice to wear a face mask, social distance and get tested regularly. He continued, “However, it is important to remember that the number of Covid cases, hospitalizations and deaths remains equal to or higher than it was in January 2022.”
The study was funded by the Nuffield Foundation, UK Research and Innovation, and Wellcome.
.
Source: Belfastlive
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
