It should surprise no one that the pandemic has had a devastating effect on our collective mental health. A new study conducted by the CDC during one week in June 2020 summarizes the cost in stark terms.

Some lowlights:

  • Younger adults, racial/ethnic minorities, essential workers, and unpaid adult caregivers were most affected.
  • 41% of respondents reported at least one adverse mental or behavioral health condition.
  • 11% of respondents seriously considered suicide in the past 30 days.
  • Common adverse effects included anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation.
  • Anxiety disorders increased over the control time frame by roughly a factor of three.

This image summarizes the results graphically:



You can read the detailed study here:


Mental Health, Substance Use, and Suicidal Ideation During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, June 24–30, 2020