Change in mental health trends in Scotland, UK pre- and post-COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic and national lockdowns have had profound impacts on population mental health in Scotland. In this study, we examine the impact on the relationship between the number of patients receiving in-patient care for mental health related diagnoses and the number of patients on waiting lists for mental health treatment. Prior to March 2020, increased waiting lists did not translate into an increase in hospital admissions. Post-March 2020, however, we found that more patients on waiting lists corresponded to more patients being hospitalised. Our analysis indicates that the relationship between waiting lists and in-patient treatment changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this may be contributing to additional pressures on hospitals and mental health services in Scotland.