Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am delighted to see Senator Norris in the Chamber and back to full health.

I also welcome the White Paper on ending direct provision. I visited some direct provision centres in my role as member of the justice and equality committee in the last Oireachtas. What I saw was horrendous and shocking. I have no doubt the residents are celebrating today. Hopefully, it will happen for them soon.

I draw attention to the worrying figures released by the Central Statistics Office which show that nearly three quarters of those aged between 18 and 34 years old reported their mental health had significantly suffered during the pandemic. Women were more likely to report their mental health and well-being had been negatively affected. More than six in ten women said their mental health was impacted. Behind these figures lie the lives of ordinary people who are struggling to deal with the impact and pressure of the changes forced on them by the pandemic and lockdown.

I have seen a 50% rise in people with a loved one in addiction seeking support from the Rise Foundation. Many people living with a loved one in addiction are experiencing high levels of anxiety and stress. They are coping with being cocooned with a family member without any social outlet and unable to access outside supports.

There is widespread concern about the impact of Covid-19 and associated restrictions on mental health. Evidence shows that the combined effect of the Covid-19 pandemic and associated restrictions is that approximately one in five people in Ireland has significantly increased anxiety and depression.

The stress and anxiety associated with lack of job security and loss of social interaction can lead to an increase in demand for mental health services. As the Leader is aware, I have seen the impact and devastation it has caused in the music industry because people feel that not only their income is gone but also their identity. What role do they have now?

There has been an increased in rates of domestic violence during the pandemic and there have been altered patterns of alcohol and substance misuse. The full extent of these issues will manifest itself in the coming years and put an enormous strain on our mental health services. It is worrying that rates of significant psychological distress among healthcare workers are approximately double those in the general population. It is essential that healthcare staff can take leave and receive support from employers where necessary psychological support is needed.

The Covid-19 infection itself affects mental health and body immediately. I ask the Minister to ensure that all healthcare workers receive whatever support they need to protect their mental health. Our healthcare workers are absolutely vital at this time.