Possible 230,000 new PTSD cases as a result of the pandemic
There are more reports from intensive care staff than military veterans with recent experience
There could be more than 200,000 new cases of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, estimates suggest.
Particular concerns have been raised about frontline health care staff and some Covid-19 patients who needed hospital care.
PTSD is an anxiety disorder caused by very stressful, frightening or distressing events.
People can experience intense negative emotions, thoughts and memories caused by a traumatic event.
The Royal College of Psychiatrists said new estimates by the NHS Strategy Unit suggest there could be 230,000 new referrals for PTSD between 2020/21 and 2022/23 in England.
"If left untreated it can ruin the lives of those who suffer from it"
Professor Neil Greenberg, expert editor of the Royal College of Psychiatrists' new resource tool for patients with PTSD, said: "It's a common misunderstanding that only people in the armed forces can develop PTSD - anyone exposed to a traumatic event is at risk.
"If left untreated it can ruin the lives of those who suffer from it as well as negatively affect their families, friends and colleagues.
"However, clearly there are jobs, including working in many healthcare settings, where experiencing traumatic events is more common so the risk of developing PTSD is unfortunately much higher.
"It's vital that anyone exposed to traumatic events is properly supported at work and home. Early and effective support can reduce the likelihood of PTSD and those affected should be able to access evidence-based treatment in a timely manner.
"Especially our NHS staff who are at increased risk as a result of this unprecedented crisis."
35% COVID patients on ventilators experience post traumatic stress disorder
The college highlighted a poll of 709 intensive care staff across six NHS hospitals in England during the first wave of the pandemic which found that two in five reported symptoms of PTSD - this is more than twice the rate found in military veterans with recent combat experience, the college said.
It also pointed to research published in the journal BJPsych Open earlier this year which found that 35% of Covid-19 patients who were put on a ventilator go on to experience extensive symptoms of PTSD.
On patient, Dee, a 52-year-old from Bristol, who became severely ill with Covid-19 last year, said: "I experienced severe anxiety about my breathing problems.
"This included intrusive visions of not being able to breathe and of NHS staff in PPE suits taking me to hospital.
"My sleep was badly affected and I started using alcohol as a coping mechanism.
"I have since tested positive for Covid-19 a second time which has been extremely traumatising. I'm struggling but I'm not confident that I can get the help I need."
What are the new restrictions, and where do you have to wear face coverings in England?
Mask wearing in shops
From Tuesday, face coverings will be mandatory in shops in England. Regardless of vaccination status, those who do not wear a mask in retail establishments - other than those who are exempt for medical purposes - will be asked to leave.
Mask wearing on public transport
While travel across the country remains permitted, face masks will also be made compulsory on public transport in England. This includes buses, trams, trains and taxis. People with medical and respiratory exemptions will not be included in these restrictions.
Students and teachers advised to wear masks
Face coverings are also "strongly advised" to be worn for students in year 7 and above in communal areas unless they are exempt. According to the Department of Education, this is to make sure they can "continue to benefit from classroom teaching".
University students encouraged to wear masks
Department for Education guidance also states that face coverings should be worn by university students and staff in communal spaces and corridors. They have also encouraged that staff and students to do lateral flow tests twice weekly.
Mask wearing in pubs as well?
As of yet, it isn't mandatory to wear a face-covering in pubs and restaurants in England. It comes as Health Minister Edward Argar explained why wearing a mask in a pub or restaurant is difficult. He said people standing at the bar are often there for a short time and will "sip a drink on their way back to a table, where they'll be seated".