Investment in mental health services and supports in the wake of Covid-19 must be made a priority.
That's according to Dr Eithne Hunt, an occupational therapist and lecturer at UCC, who says while the long term consequences of the pandemic remain unknown, prolonged stress can have a negative impact on people's wellbeing.
Hundreds of thousands of people have been laid off work in the past two months, while others have been forced to work from home and may not be able to visit their friends and family.
Fears of a prolonged recession and further job losses are also causes of concern across the world.
Speaking to RedFM News, Dr Eithne Hunt says continued public health advice is necessary to help people to look after their mental health.
"I think we need a coordinated, evidence based response to the subsequent waves or the subsequent fall out of the pandemic.
"Our mental health services around the country have been underfunded for many years, and they have recruitment and retention issues for staff.
"Mental health services, and supports for carers around the country really need to be attended to as a matter of urgency."
More information on how to look after your mental health can be found on mentalhealthireland.ie
