Trends in US Emergency Department Visits for Mental Health, Overdose, and Violence Outcomes Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in major disruption to public health infrastructure and societal norms and necessitated physical distancing measures (eg, stay-at-home orders) to slow spread of the virus. Research suggests that the social isolation that resulted from these measures, coupled with fear of contagion, may have a detrimental effect on mental health.^1-4 Economic stress, including financial hardship and job loss, may worsen mental health and contribute to increases in suicide, substance use, and violence.^1,3-11 Furthermore, the shutdown of businesses, schools, and other public entities resulted in reduced or modified access to mental health treatment, addiction and recovery support services, and services designed to support families experiencing or at risk for violence victimization.^12,13 To avoid risk of exposure to COVID-19, many people delayed or avoided seeking medical care,¹⁴ potentially increasing the risk of poor mental health, substance use, and violence outcomes.