Dealing with Depression in the Aftermath of COVID-19
Life is far from "normal," and it likely will never return to the way it was pre-pandemic. Unfortunately, while adjusting to the changes in all aspects of life, mental health has taken a huge hit. Stress from financial situations, grief from lost loved ones, depression from isolation - the list goes on. As society attempts to surge forward full-speed ahead, many are left behind struggling.
With the CDC's Census Bureau survey reporting 1 in 3 Americans experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety, we have to focus on healing before attempting to power through the pandemic. Not only has a worldwide pandemic wreaked havoc across the nation, but the civil unrest and blatant racial discrimination rampant in American society has been a point of contention over the past 2 years. Financial disparities have been exasperated. Children are acclimating to hybrid learning models. We need the chance to take a deep breath above water before the next wave hits, so to speak.
Here are 3 ways to help treat depression symptoms due to COVID-19:
- Seek professional help. One positive thing that came from the pandemic is the importance of mental health. This recognition and attention should still be just as prevalent as society "returns to normal".
- Educate yourself. Learning to put a name to your feelings or identifying coping mechanisms that work particularly well for your situation can help alleviate some of the stress. Acendapedia, our Mental Health Library, contains a myriad of articles related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Give yourself a break. If you're feeling overwhelmed, stop and remind yourself that what we're living through has never been experienced before. None of us know the true impact of such an important time in history, so don't be so hard on yourself for struggling. You are not alone.
The lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing depression and anxiety rates aren't going away anytime soon. Be kind to yourself and others.
If you or a loved one is experiencing depression, anxiety, or stress dealing with the pandemic, clinicians in our Counseling & Wellness Centers are here to help. Call our main number at 844-4-ACENDA (844-422-3632 x9500) for more information or to schedule an appointment.
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