THE pandemic has proven challenging for many different reasons, with unemployment, industry closures and lockdown impacting the nation both physically and mentally.

On-demand GP service, Gogodoc, has reported a 78% increase in sick note requests in May – a month where lockdown restrictions remained in place and ‘freedom day’ hung in the balance.

Interestingly, there are a number of different factors contributing to these requests – more so than most, relating to our mental health. Gogodoc reports 22% of sick note requests have been made for stress, 18% for anxiety and 12% for depression – showing just how much the pandemic is affecting the nation’s overall health and wellness and that many people are calling for a timeout.

Of course, there are other factors contributing to the rise in people needing time off their work life routine in order to look after their health, as 48% of sick note requests are made for other cases, such as injuries.

With injured patients skyrocketing due to the health impact of lockdown and many not being able to exercise as often as before, it’s no wonder more Brits are needing to take longer off work to recover.

Although people can self-certify their sickness and take time off for seven days, anything beyond this would require a sick note for their employer – and it’s clear that for a large proportion of the population, seven days just isn’t enough.

Dr Ashish Srivastava, Medical Director from Gogodoc said: “While lockdown restrictions are being lifted throughout the country, our stats show that people are still really suffering from ill health – which is a result of such a challenging period of lockdowns which is continuing to affect the nation both physically and mentally.

“With the nation being granted more freedoms and events and team sports back on the agenda, following a long period of people leading sedentary lifestyles, it’s no wonder injuries are on the rise given people are using muscles and exercising more than they have been during lockdown.

“It’s crucial that those who are struggling with their health, whether it be physically or mentally, take the necessary steps to rest and recuperate. A quick video consultation to your GP is often all you need to request a sick note and provide you with some much-needed time off.

“At Gogodoc, we provide quick and easy video consultations for those struggling with their work life balance and who simply need put their physical or mental health first. It’s important to listen to your body and not push yourself, speaking openly and honestly with those around you about how you’re feeling to ensure you’re not going through it alone.”