Researchers Estimate 75,000 ‘Deaths Of Despair’ From Pandemic, Employment ‘Central’ To Combating Crisis
By Tim Pearce
The coronavirus pandemic could lead to an estimated 75,000 “deaths of despair” from alcohol, drug use, suicide, and other factors, new research suggests.
The health group Well Being Trust released projections on mounting deaths driven by social isolation, skyrocketing unemployment, and anxiety on Friday. Widespread government shutdowns implemented to slow the spread of the coronavirus have exacerbated these impacts, driving the U.S. economy into one of its deepest recessions in a matter of weeks. The shutdowns have also cut off almost every American from community events such as church and sports.
“Undeniably policymakers must place a large focus on mitigating the effects of COVID. However, if the country continues to ignore the collateral damage — specifically our nation’s mental health — we will not come out of this stronger,” said Benjamin Miller, chief strategy officer of Well Being Trust. “If we work to put in place healthy community conditions, good healthcare coverage, and inclusive policies, we can improve mental health and well-being. With all the other COVID-related investments, it’s time for the federal government to fully support a framework for excellence in mental health and well-being and invest in mental health now.”
Researchers used the number of “deaths of despair” from 2018 – 181,686 deaths – as a baseline and factored in projections of the lasting economic impact of the pandemic and shutdowns from 2020 through 2029. Models of the best and worst-case scenarios yielded results of an additional 27,644 deaths to 154,037 deaths.