Background The number of people testing positive for SARS-COV-2 in the UK, particularly among young adults, is increasing. We report here on the mental health of young adults and related psychological and behavioural responses to the pandemic, and consider the role of these factors in fuelling the increase in Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in this group. Methods An online survey was completed during the first six weeks of the first UK-wide lockdown by 3097 respondents, including data for 364 respondents between the ages of 18-24 years. The survey included measures of mental health and indices capturing related psychological and behavioural responses to the pandemic. Results The mental health of 18-24 years olds in the first 6 weeks of lockdown was significantly poorer than that of older respondents and previously published norms: with 84% reporting symptoms of depression and 72% reporting symptoms of anxiety. Young adults also reported significantly greater loneliness and reduced positive mood, both of which were also associated with greater mental health difficulties. Conclusions We contend that the combination of mental health, social and economic considerations may have contributed to the rise of COVID-19 infections in young adults and ascribing blame to this group will not aid our efforts to regain control of the disease.
Young people, mental health and COVID-19 infection: The canaries we put in the coal-mine