According to CDC, as of 18th March 2020, there are 7038 reported cases of coronavirus in the United States. The current coronavirus pandemic is a rare and particular situation. It not only affects people physically but also psychologically.
Many people may experience anxiety and depression as a result of the pandemic. Mental health experts encourage people to pay close attention to any feelings of depression or stress during this period. Learning how to cope with stress and getting depression treatment helps the individual in the community to stay strong.
How the Coronavirus Pandemic Can Cause Depression
During this time, many employers are encouraging their employees to work from home. Working from home sometimes creates feelings of isolation and loneliness. The stock market and economy of the world are also undergoing economic depression. Most people that previously experienced feelings of anxiety may have their conditions worse from the coronavirus outbreak.
Some people may ignore depression treatment and their mental health especially during pandemics like this. It is important to learn that feeling helpless and sad is normal during unusually chaotic periods. Taking a step to seek depression treatment is a sign of courage and strength.
Older people and those at a higher risk of infection are more likely to experience stress during this time. Teenagers and kids also need guidance and support to deal with the confusion caused by the coronavirus outbreak. Doctors and other health experts are also at a high risk of developing mental health conditions during this period.
Common Depression Symptoms
Some of the symptoms to watch out for if you suspect you have depression at this time include:
- Difficulty in concentrating
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Worsening of severe health conditions
- Changes in eating patterns
- Increased use of drugs such as tobacco and alcohol
- Unexplained body pains and headache
- Excess sadness or worry
Seeking Depression Treatment During the Coronavirus Outbreak
Taking care of your family, friends, and yourself can help you cope with stress. According to the CDC, people should share facts about the COVID-19 and understand the risks it poses to those around them. This helps to reduce stress caused by the outbreak.
Parents should gain courage and deal with the issue with confidence. This provides support to the children and helps reduce their anxiety. Take the initiative to talk to your child about the disease. Make them understand facts about coronavirus and avoid instilling fear in them.
For responders such as the doctors handling the patients, it is important to take a break from the coverage of the coronavirus. Engage in personal self-care activities to distract you from your job. Make your family understand why you need to respond to the issue. Health experts require those exposed to COVID-19 to stay isolated for some time. This may be stressful regardless of whether one is positive or negative.
Activities to Engage In
Some of the activities that you can engage in to reduce depression and stress during the COVID-19 outbreak include:
- Connecting with others: Ensure you engage with your close family and friends through social media platforms. This helps to keep your mind off the pandemic and enjoy fun moments with your loved ones
- Taking breaks from reading or watching coverage of the COVID-19 outbreak
- Allocating time to unwind: Read novels, watch movies, and quality sleep
- Taking good care of your body: Meditate, stretch, and engage in indoor exercises. Avoid drugs and alcohol and eat a balanced diet while at home
- Taking the necessary precautions: Wash your hand regularly and disinfect all parts of your house. This reduces the risk of contracting the coronavirus
Ensure Proper Mental Health
Don’t let depression and anxiety during this time. Take a step to seek depression treatment from mental health experts using telehealth technology. For help with depression treatment, contact Encore Health Group online. We’re all in this together.
