RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — 46% of Richmond residents report their mental health has worsened since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to a survey conducted by Virginia Commonwealth University.
The survey was conducted in fall 2023 with a focus on how communities have been affected by the pandemic and received more than 800 responses across Central Virginia.
In addition to reporting a decline in mental health, the study found that 31.5% of Richmond residents plan to seek medical services more frequently in the next two years.
The survey also found that more than 44% of Richmond residents believe the quality of health care services is declining.
It also found that 45% of Richmond residents say they feel less connected to their community than they did before the pandemic.
When it comes to education, 63% of Richmond residents said they think K-12 education has gotten worse since the pandemic arrived in early 2020.
“Going forward, fostering community ties, supporting local businesses, and addressing the needs of our education and health care systems will be critical to Richmond’s lasting recovery and prosperity,” said Jodi L. Ferguson, professor of marketing. Probably.” “This report highlights the importance of community engagement and adaptability as we navigate the path to a stronger, more connected Richmond in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
