UCL Behavioural Science & Health has launched a study into the psychological and social effects of Covid-19 in the UK.
The results from this are vital if we are to understand the effects of the virus and social distancing measures on individuals. They will help us to track trajectories of mental health and loneliness in the UK over the coming weeks, identify which groups are most at risk, and understand the effects of any potentially protective activities people could be engaging in. This will help to inform the advice that people are given about how to stay well at home.
We are aiming to recruit a large longitudinal sample, so we’d be grateful if you could spread the word about the study. In particular we’re looking for cascades of the study through relevant newsletters and mailing lists and any efforts that will help to ensure a diverse sample.
The study is open to all adults in the UK. Participation involves answering a 15-minute online survey now and then answering a shorter 10-minute follow-up survey once a week whilst social isolation measures are in place.
To take part, visit www.covid19study.org
We will be providing public data releases each week. You can sign up to receive these here. We are also liaising with key policy and healthcare bodies within the UK, and with teams in other countries to produce cross-national comparisons. If there are other stakeholders you feel we should be communicating directly with, do let me know.