Covid-19: Reaksjoner hos brukere av behandlingstilbud for psykiske vansker og rusproblemer

Background: Previous studies have documented negative impacts of the covid-19 pandemic on mental health in the general community. Less is known about how the pandemic has impacted users of mental health and substance abuse services. Methods: We invited users of mental health and substance abuse services to an online survey concerning their reactions to the pandemic (N = 2264, response rate = 15.1 %). Specifically, we investigated potential associations between strains and worries due to covid-19 and current stress reactions, anxiety-depression, somatic complaints, suicidality, and loneliness. Results: Pandemic-related strains and worries were highly prevalent and explained a significant proportion (up to 31 %) of current mental and physical health problems. Issues related to reduced access to health care and treatment had consistent associations with the current health problems. Conclusion:   Users of mental health and substance abuse treatments are particularly vulnerable to experiencing stress and strains due to the pandemic. It may be of vital importance for such services to secure continuity of treatment throughout the pandemic to avoid unnecessary burdens on service users.