The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted my mental health, and I suspect I’m not alone in this struggle. As life shifted dramatically just weeks ago, I found myself grappling for stability amidst the chaos. Sorting through the flood of information online and assessing the threats became an overwhelming task. On top of that, I had to adapt to remote work and manage my children’s education—all of it crashing down like a tidal wave. It’s only in recent weeks that I’ve had the space to process these emotions.
Having dealt with severe anxiety and depression for as long as I can remember, I expected that my existing resources and medications would help me navigate this crisis. Yet, like many others with mental health challenges, I find myself struggling even more. While it’s common to feel heightened anxiety in these circumstances, for those of us already battling mental health issues, the pandemic has intensified our daily struggles.
This understanding was echoed in a report published recently by the Well Being Trust and the Robert Graham Center for Policy Studies in Family Medicine and Primary Care. Their findings indicate that “deaths from despair” (encompassing drug overdoses, alcohol-related fatalities, and suicides) could rise by 75,000 due to the pandemic. The report highlights the urgency of addressing this looming crisis.
The alarming projection is drawn from historical data showing increased substance abuse and suicide rates following natural disasters. However, the unique global nature of COVID-19 presents challenges far beyond those of localized events like earthquakes or hurricanes. The report calls on political leaders to take immediate action to mitigate this emotional fallout. Given the current political climate, such actions seem unlikely, prompting me to consider what I can do now for myself and my loved ones.
Strategies for Managing Mental Health
During lockdowns, traditional support systems may be less accessible, but that doesn’t mean help is entirely out of reach. For instance, NPR recently published a list of mental health management strategies that many can utilize during these trying times. Personally, I have found value in several of these suggestions.
Connect Virtually
Reach out to friends and family through video calls or phone conversations. Sharing experiences and feelings can ease personal burdens. I’ve been making more calls than ever, and just hearing a friendly voice can be incredibly comforting.
Adjust Medications and Seek Teletherapy
Numerous therapists and health plans are now offering virtual consultations. I’ve been meeting with my therapist online and have an upcoming appointment with my psychologist to reassess my medication. Initially, adapting to online therapy can be challenging, especially when trying to find private space in a busy home. While it might feel awkward discussing your worries with family nearby, careful planning can make it work. Just ensure to verify your insurance coverage for these online sessions.
Create a Safety Plan
Although I haven’t yet implemented this, developing a crisis safety plan with family or housemates is an important step. This plan should address securing potentially harmful items and lay out steps to take during a crisis. While it may be uncomfortable, having this discussion could prevent future tragedies. There are useful templates online to help formalize this process.
Seek Financial Assistance
Financial strain is likely to exacerbate mental health conditions in the coming months. Resources, such as those compiled by NPR, can guide individuals facing economic hardships due to COVID-19 on how to find assistance.
The potential loss of 75,000 lives to despair is a stark reality that cannot be overlooked. If you’re experiencing anxiety or depression, please know that many others are facing similar challenges. Despite the current barriers, support is still available. Additionally, if you know someone who regularly struggles, now is the time to check in on them; they may need your support more than ever.
For more insights on managing mental health during these times, check out our other post here. For those interested in family planning, this resource provides excellent information. You can also visit this authority for more guidance.
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated mental health issues for many, leading to projected increases in “deaths of despair.” While traditional support systems may be less accessible, various strategies exist to help manage mental health during this crisis, including virtual connections, online therapy, and financial assistance. It’s crucial to reach out for help and support others during these challenging times.