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Mental Health and COVID
Ayear ago , did you think you would spend the greater
part of 2020 distancing from loved ones and wearing masks in public ? For most people , facing a global pandemic was not in their plans . It ’ s completely expected that you might be cycling through negative feelings like stress , disappointment and loneliness .
However , for a growing part of the population , mental health conditions like anxiety , depression and other issues have made it very difficult to function normally in everyday life . We spoke with Julie Palmer , a certified registered nurse practitioner ( CRNP ) at Washington Health System to discuss the rising numbers of mental health conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic .
“ At first it wasn ’ t clear but as the pandemic wavered on it became more evident . People who had not required psychiatric treatment prior have presented for evaluation and treatment of psychiatric symptoms ,” says Palmer .
Anxiety , depression and substance abuse have been the most common issues . But Palmer is also seeing people experiencing grief , loneliness and even OCD . Even those who were already undergoing treatment for mental health conditions are experiencing an uptick in symptoms .
“ Stress is typically something that can exacerbate symptoms of those already being treated for mental health conditions . The loneliness and feelings of isolation that many are experiencing with pandemic-related lifestyle changes are certainly contributing ,” Palmer notes .
Anyone can experience mental health issues , but there seems to be certain groups of people that are being affected at a higher rate . Healthcare workers , other essential workers , children and the elderly are more vulnerable to these issues for various reasons . Perhaps one of the most affected populations are young adults , who are experiencing higher rates of suicide .
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety , depression or any other mental health issues , your first priority is to discuss it with your doctor . They can help you explore your options which may include counseling , medication and / or lifestyle changes . Beyond that , there are many things you can do to lessen feelings of stress and loneliness .
• Follow CDC guidelines like socially distancing and wearing masks . These actions can make you feel like you have some control over the health of others and yourself .
• Exercise can make a world of difference in your mood . Taking physical care of yourself is so important to mental health . Exercise , eat well and get enough sleep .
• Limit the amount of news and social media that you consume . Focus on facts .
• Find creative ways to get social . Form an online book club with friends , do a virtual fitness class , set up video chats with family .
• Get outside as much as you can . When it feels like your whole world has changed , it ’ s a nice reminder that nature stays the same .
• Enjoy new hobbies that you can focus on to get your mind off of everything else .
• Reach out to family and friends for support .
One of the most important things we can do as a society is to lessen the stigma of mental illness .
“ I think the more people who are willing to discuss mental health issues as they would other health issues such as blood pressure , the less shameful or embarrassing it will be ,” says Palmer . People might be more likely to seek help .
If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency , call 911 or go to the nearest hospital . Otherwise , contact your primary care doctor to start the conversation
WHS Physician Referral Line ( 724 ) 250-4310
Written by Emily King
whs . org
PETERS TOWNSHIP ❘ FEBRUARY / MARCH 2021 37