Pandemic fallout: Health experts warn of mental illness surge

Experts say addiction is a disease of isolation, and quarantining and social distancing increase the risk of relapse.

Health experts are warning the coronavirus pandemic could lead to an historic surge in mental health problems, as a growing number of people turn to drugs and alcohol.

A federal US emergency hotline reported a 1,000-percent increase in calls in April.

A poll has found nearly half of Americans say the crisis is affecting their mental health.

Al Jazeera’s John Hendren reports from Chicago.