Understanding the impact COVID-19 had on mental health sheds a big light on future steps for prevention, intervention, and recovery. Mental health services were already overstretched before the pandemic and the need for more services climbed significantly a few months after quarantine regulations were put into effect. It’s also important to point out the strides the mental health community made to accommodate the physical distancing and isolation rules by offering more telehealth services to reach clients that otherwise wouldn’t be able to receive them. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has increased risk factors for poor mental health such as unemployment, financial insecurity, lessened physical health, and more. Everyone was impacted by the pandemic in different ways, whether physically, psychologically, or emotionally so checking on our mental health should also be made a priority.
Some common reactions to COVID-19 regulations like social distancing include feelings of isolation, loneliness, and depression. While some experts had concerns about suicide rates increasing, statistics show that the overall suicide death rates have remained steady during the pandemic (National Center for Health Statistics, 2021). Unfortunately, grief over loss and sick loved ones did increase, as did the need for more mental health providers. Psychological reactions towards the pandemic included frustration, worry, and anger especially regarding the inability to control the current state of the world.
We are currently two years into the pandemic and the effects of COVID-19 are still being identified today. Taking care of your mental health is as important as taking precautions against the COVID-19 virus so we listed a few ways to help cope with the stress of the pandemic.
Limit Your Information Intake
Knowledge is power up until the information causes you severe anxiety or stress. With the pandemic being at the forefront of news channels and everyday conversations, taking a break from COVID-19 related news can be helpful. While it’s good to remain informed, constantly hearing about the rise in cases can be upsetting so limit the amount of time you watch or listen to COVID-related news. Disconnecting from screens altogether is also a great way to recharge and focus on more positive things happening around you.
Identify and Use Coping Skills
Meditation, deep breathing, coloring, or journaling are commonly used coping methods to help easy anxiety and can also be used to combat worries surrounding COVID-19. It’s good practice to have different coping skills for a variety of situations. For example, knowing which coping skills can be used indoors versus outdoors or individually versus with a group of people allows you to be more versatile and choose appropriate coping mechanisms that best fit your situation. Exploring and trying out new coping skills is the best way to learn what you find relaxing or would like to incorporate in your daily routine.
Take Care of Yourself
Achieving overall wellness means taking care of yourself on both a mental and physical level. COVID-19 regulations prioritize social distancing to help slow the spread of the virus meaning that individuals are spending more time alone and inside their homes. While it’s easy to sit on the couch and do nothing, it’s important to maintain an exercise routine, eat healthy foods, and get plenty of sleep. Try to avoid excessive use of alcohol or tobacco products to compensate for boredom and choose healthier alternatives like reading a book or completing a complex puzzle. Something as simple as taking a 15-minute walk can change your perspective and make you feel refreshed and optimistic for the future. Another large part of taking care of yourself is recognizing when you are struggling and need outside help. If you have been struggling with your mental health due to COVID-19 or its related effects, reach out to a friend or mental health provider for assistance and support.
