‘We'll face a tsunami of mental health & addiction problems'

Singer Frances warns of rise in mental health problems after pandemic ends

- SIOBHAN O’CONNOR

FRANCES Black has warned of a “tsunami” of mental health issues post-pandemic as a spike in substance abuse and addiction take their toll.

The Woman’s Heart singer, who ditched the booze, said she’s living a life “beyond her wildest dreams” as she flies the flag for those in recovery.

The Dubliner, who is now a Senator, set up her charity Rise to help families cope with the impact of addiction.

There is a waiting list for the organization’s services as Covid has wreaked havoc on those caught in the grip of addiction.

Frances, 61, told the Irish Sunday Mirror: “The pandemic has heightened everything from alcoholism to mental health issues, people are drinking more because of it. They’re using more drugs and acting out with more unhealthy behaviours in general.

“More and more family members are coming to us, we have a waiting list.

“I think we’re in for a tsunami around mental health issues coming down the line.