Why mental health has become a crisis
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, rates of anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance abuse have risen. Social isolation has led to many mental health symptoms which can last from several months up to three years after the quarantine period (Brookes et al;,2020). While the pandemic will end, some of the lasting effects such as poor mental health may be more of a long term issue. Take the initiative to improve your mental health!
Symptoms of poor post-pandemic mental health:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anger/Irritability
- Post-traumatic stress symptoms (flashbacks, severe anxiety, nightmares, uncontrollable thoughts)
- Substance abuse
- Social isolation
- Overly-cautious hand washing
- Avoiding crowded places
- Loneliness
- Domestic violence/child abuse
How to improve your mental health:
- Seek help- Regardless of how severe you perceive your condition to be, it is very important to seek out medical attention any time you experience any struggles with your mental health. Talk therapy may be enough, but in some cases prescribed medication may be needed
- Take care of your body- Daily exercise, proper nutrition, and an adequate amount of sleep will help to keep your body healthy
- Surround yourself with a tribe- People are not meant to be isolated long term. Constant communication with close family and friends can help to boost you up on days you need someone to talk to
- Find healthy coping mechanisms- stress will come and go, however the important determining factor is how you handle it. Find ways to emotionally cope without the use of drugs and alcohol
References:
Brooks S.K., Webster R.K., Smith L.E., Woodland L., Wessely S., Greenberg N., Rubin G.J. The psychological impact of quarantine and how to reduce it: rapid review of the evidence. Lancet. 2020;395:912–920. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]