Studying mental health in populations is not a simple task, but as the pandemic has continued, mounting concerns have mobilised researchers.

Now, researchers have used data from helplines in 20 countries to assess the impacts that COVID, as well as associated political and public health measures like financial assistance programs and lockdowns, have had on mental health. Contrary to expectations, loneliness and concerns about the impacts of the pandemic drove most of the callers, rather than imminent threats such as suicidal thoughts or abuse.

News: Millions of helpline calls reveal how COVID affected mental health

Omicron

We will be discussing Omicron in an upcoming Coronapod on 17 December. If you would like to ask any questions of our reporters about Omicron, please get in touch on Twitter: @naturepodcast or email: podcast@nature.com

News: How bad is Omicron? What scientists know so far

News: Omicron is supercharging the COVID vaccine booster debate

News: Omicron-variant border bans ignore the evidence, say scientists

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