“Have you ever just cried out of the blue?” my friend inquired during a video chat. I shrugged it off, recalling how I had a meltdown after forgetting my ID during a pharmacy trip earlier that week. I ended up sobbing to my partner about how we hadn’t dined out since March. The truth was clear: I was experiencing the pandemic blues.
It may seem mild—a touch of sadness or an increase in anxiety—but it can hit hard. There are moments when I look at my partner and voice that life feels unbearable. When he suggests a safe outing, my laughter turns bitter. “Where? We’ll just catch the virus,” I retort. “People aren’t wearing masks, and it drives me crazy.”
This isn’t surprising. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, by mid-July, 53% of American adults reported that the pandemic had negatively impacted their mental health, up from 32% in March. Additionally, 36% had trouble sleeping, 32% faced difficulties with eating, and 12% acknowledged increased alcohol consumption. Typically, around one in ten adults report symptoms of anxiety or depression weekly, but in one week in July, that number soared to 40.1%.
Are You Experiencing Pandemic Blues?
The Kaiser Family Foundation indicates that the most significant mental health impacts tend to affect those sheltering in place, particularly women with children under 18. While it might not be fair to gender this issue, it likely reflects that more women are managing childcare responsibilities. A more accurate term would be “primary caregivers,” regardless of gender. As of September, the Kansas Health System found that 30% of adults displayed symptoms of clinical depression. The pandemic blues are real and treatable. You shouldn’t have to navigate these feelings alone.
If you constantly feel sad, avoid activities that once brought you joy, struggle with sleep, or feel hopeless, you may be experiencing depression. Anxiety symptoms during the pandemic can manifest as nervousness, restlessness, stress, and feelings of being overwhelmed. If these feelings dominate your life, seeking help is essential.
The Seriousness of Pandemic Blues
It’s no laughing matter. While we might all experience moments of worry and stress, it’s crucial to recognize the difference between occasional bad days and more severe mental health issues. Yes, we may all feel a bit off-kilter, but some individuals need more support. If you feel trapped in anxiety or despair, reaching out for help is crucial.
However, we must be cautious. Not every negative feeling equals a mental health disorder. As noted by Psychiatric Times, surveys may reveal significant symptoms, but they don’t always imply clinical diagnoses. Many might just be experiencing feelings of demoralization or discontent. Lack of a formal diagnosis doesn’t diminish the significance of the pandemic blues.
This means your healthcare provider might not have a quick fix for you. Strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy, meditation, and engaging in enjoyable activities can be beneficial, even if they don’t provide instant relief.
It’s vital to note that clinical standards for generalized anxiety disorder require symptoms to persist for six months. Many people surveyed in July began experiencing symptoms earlier in the pandemic, so they may not meet clinical criteria. Nonetheless, those feelings of stress and worry remain valid. Personally, I often grapple with feelings of hopelessness, yet I manage to maintain daily functioning.
I admit, I had a breakdown after that pharmacy trip. Some evenings, I find myself indulging a bit too much while chatting with friends. My anxiety also spikes when encountering people without masks. I recognize I have the pandemic blues; they are present, though not classified as clinical.
I do my best to cope. I make an effort to get outside, connect with friends virtually, and engage in hobbies I enjoy. While the heaviness of these feelings doesn’t fully dissipate, they become more manageable. In these challenging times, that’s all we can really aim for.
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Summary
The pandemic blues are a genuine concern affecting many people during these challenging times. They can manifest as feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness. While some may experience these symptoms without meeting clinical criteria, it’s vital to acknowledge them and seek support when needed. Engaging in positive activities and reaching out for help can make a significant difference.