mental health

In June 2020, a CDC study found that over 40% of US adults had already reported at least one negative mental health impact of the pandemic.

Now into the second year of Covid-19, the toll on mental health continues to intensify. Those most susceptible are women, younger adults, and lower socioeconomic groups (which are often minorities).

Are you or a loved one suffering from poor mental health as a result of a pandemic? Learn more about the most prevalent mental health disorders during Covid-19 and what you can do about it.

1. Depression

Studies show that as many as 1 in 3 adults are now struggling with depression or anxiety as a result of Covid-19.

This uptick in depression is brought on by factors like a lack of social interactions, boredom, loneliness, feelings of despair over an uncertain future and lack of opportunity.

Also suffering from depression are frontline medical workers. They have now been witnessing the death toll of Covid-19 daily for an entire year with little reprieve in sight.

2. Anxiety

The pandemic is triggering psychological distress over job loss or potential job loss and subsequent financial insecurity. Those with less financial resources also face more anxiety surrounding access to medical care for themselves or loved ones if they contract Covid-19.

On top of this, there is constant fear around the health and well-being of yourself and loved ones.

3. PTSD

Those who already suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are at risk for heightened symptoms during the pandemic.

Infectious disease epidemics also cause PTSD as a result of psychological trauma. This includes treatment-related trauma (such as intubation) or families of Covid-19 victims and medical professionals who have been affected by the suffering of others.

4.  Insomnia

As a general rule of thumb, changes to routine and decreased activity lead to sleep difficulties and insomnia.

Working from home or not working at all during the pandemic significantly impact both routine and activity levels. Combined with pandemic-related anxiety, sleeping often becomes difficult.

5. Substance Use Disorders

Alcohol consumption has skyrocketed since the start of the pandemic. Also alarming is the increase in drug overdose deaths.

Further complicating matters, in-person mental health services and support groups have ceased during the pandemic. Rehabilitation facilities have also been forced to reduced patient intake.

How to Improve Your Mental Health During a Pandemic

There is a whole range of strategies you can implement to help manage your mental health during the Covid-19 pandemic.

  • Make yourself stick to a routine. Don’t sleep late or stay in your pajamas all day. Maintain your personal appearance and hygiene to help boost your self-esteem.
  • Stay physically active. Just a walk outside does wonders to boost the mood.
  • Find a source of release. Try a new hobby like art, writing, or cooking. Music is also therapeutic.
  • IF your circumstances permit, consider getting a pet. The mental health benefits of a furry companion abound. Please ONLY get a pet if you can commit to providing proper love and care for the long haul though.
  • Stay connected to friends and family online and on the phone as much as possible.
  • Incorporate mindfulness exercises into your day. Try yoga, meditation and deep breathing practices.
  • Utilize professional mental health services or call a mental health hotline.

Remember, We’re All In This Together

The Covid-19 pandemic is affecting the entire global population. If you are experiencing negative mental health impacts like anxiety, depression, and insomnia, you are not alone.

Contact our team to find out how a holistic and naturopathic approach can help boost your mental health and overall wellbeing.