Mental Health during COVID-19

How isolation and pre-existing minor mental health conditions flared up and blew up during and after the isolation that COVID caused in our society. It is sad.

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in our lives, including uncertainty, altered daily routines, financial pressures, and social isolation. These changes have had a profound impact on our mental health, leading to increased stress, anxiety, fear, sadness, and loneliness1. Mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression can also worsen during this time.

The effects of social isolation on mental health have been widely studied. Studies have shown that isolation can contribute to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and dementia2. In addition, infection isolation protocols have been noted to cause significant issues including decreased interaction times with medical staff, increased depression and anxiety, and increased anger and fear.

During this challenging time, it is important to prioritize self-care strategies to help cope with the emotional toll of isolation. Here are some self-care strategies that can benefit your mental health:

• Take care of your body: Get enough sleep, participate in regular physical activity, eat healthy, avoid tobacco, alcohol, and drugs, limit screen time.

• Connect with others: Reach out to friends and family through phone calls or video chats. Social connections are crucial for maintaining good mental health4.

• Seek professional help: If you are struggling with your mental health, consider seeking professional help. Many therapists offer telehealth services that allow you to receive support from the comfort of your home.

Remember that you are not alone in this. It is normal to experience a wide range of emotions during these challenging times. Reach out for support when needed and take care of yourself both physically and mentally.

Stay safe and take care! 💙