The pandemic has affected everyone, from key-workers to young children, but the change for students has arguably been the most drastic during lockdown. With the substantial adjustment to online learning and the isolation from friends, many students feel overwhelmed and burdened, pressured to live up to the expectations from friends, family and their teachers.

One reason for this is the uncertainty of their learning situation. So far, most lockdown announcements from Boris Johnson have been unexpected, and students have been forced to adjust their whole lives in a matter of days. On top of this, the overwhelming burden of school work has given students little time for themselves, staring at a screen for hours on end. They are expected to stay on top of their school work and any extra-curricular activities they may have as well as being socially available and keeping contact with their friends, spending time with family, and also having time for themselves. This causes more stress for students and leads to poor mental health. A study shows that people aged 73% of students aged 18-24 reported worse mental health and well-being during lockdown in 2020, as they are missing the school environment, isolated from the rest of the world. Many students struggle to find time to enjoy the fresh air and take daily walks, as they may feel exhausted from online classes.

Another problem is that most students are making important decisions regarding universities and their future. Without the typical support from teachers and other advisors, they may feel stressed and anxious while choosing their options.

Although the closing of schools is clearly necessary for the decrease of COVID-19 cases, the impact of students’ mental health is not being considered. Lockdown has proven useful and it was definitely required, however, it is important to note the effect it has had on students.