According to CDC's latest data (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), the COVID-19 pandemic causes considerable growth in mental health issues. CDC reported that 40 percent of American adults are currently affected.
Additionally, similar research indicates an increasing psychological impact and anxiety rate, even for people who previously never experienced such conditions.
Experts believe that the human brain functions with familiarity, plans, or programmed circumstances. Therefore, if there is a slight negative adjustment, such as pandemics or disasters, which last for a long time, it affects normal brain functioning. Later, when the brain can't handle prolonged stress and uncertainty, it results in mental health disorders.
Statistics from the CDC
According to a survey of American adults conducted between June 24 to June 30, statistics indicate the prevalence of
- 31 percent of anxiety and depression symptoms
- 26 percent of trauma or stressor-linked disorder symptoms
- 11 percent contemplated suicide
- 13 percent involved in substance use
Additionally, other organizations such as the Kaiser Family Foundation conducted their tests and discovered almost similar figures coronavirus impact on mental health.
Additional Consequences from the Pandemic
Currently, apart from the mental health issues, every person experiences different challenges from the pandemic.
According to the findings by Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the main cause of anxiety and mental health issues in America is due to financial instability. Those earning yearly household salaries of less than $35,000 were linked with increased mental problems than households with higher salaries.
An additional report from the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that 40 percent of the participants experienced challenges with bills, utilities, and necessities payments in the past three months. Over half of them stated the COVID-19 pandemic contributed a significant impact on their financial difficulties.
Strategies to Help you Cope with the pandemic
As the pandemic persists, experts state that improving the availability and access to mental health facilities, including public health attempts, are crucial aspects of coping with mental needs during the pandemic. Those who are experiencing financial challenges or the unemployed will benefit from these steps since they can't afford health services.
For those who have anxiety symptoms, there are temporary approaches that can improve them, such as:
- Connecting socially to family and friends
- Practicing healthy routines, such as eating healthy, regular exercise, and sleep
- Creating and adhering to work schedule if you work at home to avoid fatigue
- Having regular rests
- Avoiding alcohol or substance use as a way to control anxiety or stress.
Instead, people should also consider performing checkups with a mental health therapist for more advice regarding their anxiety concerns.
Final Words from the Recover
Pandemics should not make people experience challenges in life to the point that they suffer from mental health disorders.
However, if you realize you struggle with emotional and psychological challenges, ensure to consult your doctor first for an appropriate referral to a mental health provider.
Alternatively, if you experience mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or stress, various rehab centers near you can address such needs during the pandemic. Ensure to inquire how they can support you since they have professionals to assist with any difficulties you encounter during this period.
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