70% of parents, caregivers report mental health symptoms: CDC

More than two-thirds of parents and unpaid caregivers reported adverse mental health symptoms during the pandemic, according to the CDC's Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report published June 18. 

Seventy percent of all parents and caregivers of adults reported mental health issues, compared to about one-third of adults without caregiving responsibilities. This figure jumped to 85 percent for people with both parenting and adult caregiving responsibilities. These individuals were also eight times more likely to seriously consider suicide compared to people without either responsibility. 

"Caregivers, particularly persons with both parenting and adult caregiving responsibilities, will continue to face mental health challenges, and the need for caregivers is projected to increase as the U.S. population ages," the CDC said, adding that this population might benefit from mental health support and services tailored to their roles. 

The findings are based on survey data for 10,444 U.S. adults collected as part of the COVID-19 Outbreak Public Evaluation Initiative. Respondents were polled from Dec. 6-27, 2020, and Feb. 16 to March 8. 

The CDC said these results may not fully represent the U.S. population, since it was only given in English and to people with internet access. 

To view the full report, click here.

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