The coronavirus pandemic is taking its toll on many people’s mental health.
According to a new University of Michigan study, 50 percent of respondents reported experiencing anxiety on a regular basis since the pandemic began.
32 percent reported having symptoms that indicate major depression.
The study’s lead author, Shawna Lee, says many people are also turning to alcohol and marijuana to help cope.
“28 percent of all respondents said they had used alcohol or marijuana to make themselves feel better. 22 percent said they were using alcohol more and about 14 percent said they were using marijuana more,” says Lee.
Lee says many adults are also turning to loved ones for support during the crisis, adding that 71 percent of respondents said they have felt emotionally closer to their partner than usual since the pandemic began.
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— Taylor Pinson is a writer/reporter for 89.1 WEMU News. Contact him at 734.487.3363 or email him studio@wemu.org
