Residual impact of the pandemic
Here we are, soon to enter into 2024, almost 5 years after the COVID-19 virus impacted the world. None of us could have predicted the changes that we would experience in how we approach work, school, going out, and more. More so, it has had a rippling impact on mental health that is still being dealt with today. Having an abrupt halt on normal routines, being in isolation, not knowing what the future would bring, and overall concerns about personal and familial health have caused stress, anxiety, and depression rates to skyrocket, even now. The following are ways that the pandemic has impacted the mental health of young people, coupled with advice on how to cope moving forward.
Disruption of routine
Impact: School closures, event cancellations, and restrictions on our social activities greatly disrupted our daily routines. Experiencing a disruption like this can lead to feeling lost or unstable.
Advice: If you haven’t already, establishing a new routine that includes regular sleep, exercise, study, and work schedules is a great way to provide oneself with a sense of structure and normalcy.
Social isolation
Impact: Social distancing and lockdown procedures left people alone. It was the most disconnected from others we may have ever experienced. This increased feelings of loneliness and isolation, not knowing the next time we may see our loved ones in person.
Advice: Virtual platforms like video calls, social media, or chat rooms were and still are a great way to stay connected with loved ones when we cannot be with them in person. There are tons of online communities, clubs, classes, and more to maintain some social interaction with others when we are limited by other factors.
Uncertainty about the future
Impact: Not knowing how long the active pandemic would last or the long-term effects, along with how we would navigate the world going forward, was heavily associated with a rise in anxiety.
Advice: Our best tool is remaining present. Breaking down our goals into smaller, manageable chunks can keep us from stressing about the unknown future. Seeking mentorship or counseling regarding our decisions for education and careers can also be helpful to keep us grounded.
Academic stress
Impact: Online learning was good for some, but not for most. Traditional teaching and grading were completely disrupted and we are still seeing effects on education from trying to adapt teaching methods to the changing world.
Advice: Communicating with teachers, professors, or colleagues for support can be helpful for keeping up with new learning models. Aside from this, we must practice self-compassion and be aware that everyone is navigating a situation we have not had to deal with before. Things are different and we are all trying to figure it out.
Mental health stigma
Impact: Long before the pandemic, mental health was stigmatized as only for crazy people or those who are really in trouble. People still hesitate to seek help due to what others may think about them or say to them.
Advice: Normalize mental health discussion. Being open and honest will attract others who are searching for the same. When we are a safe place for others, we are more likely to receive safety and support in return. Most importantly, seek professional help. Whether in person or virtual, many mental health professionals are ready to help work through whatever you need, even if you feel it may be “small”.
Physical health concerns
Impact: Concerns about the health of our loved ones or ourselves can be very difficult to navigate. If we are not staying present-minded, it can cause us to spiral into a very negative place.
Advice: Prioritizing self-care through sleep, exercise, and diet is essential, which is why I have mentioned it twice! We can also work on our coping skills and practice them regularly to prepare us for when we really need them. If you need ideas on coping skills, check out my blog, “15 coping skills for anxiety”.
Media consumption
Impact: When we were isolated, confused, and worried, it was easy to get pulled into excessive exposure to media. Our nervous systems are not meant to host that much information. It is way too much for us to process. Between news outlets and social media, many of us were unable to live life at all.
Advice: It can be useful for us to set specific times for consuming news and social media, and sticking to it. Taking breaks to engage in activities outside of media is essential if we are to ever allow ourselves to relax.
It is imperative that we recognize the importance of our mental well-being and engage actively in various practices that promote resilience and healthy coping with the times we are living in. Open communication, a supportive environment, and seeking help from a licensed mental health professional are essential components of properly supporting mental health in response to pandemic-related events and aftermath. Halle Crutch is offering counseling services to teen girls and young adult women who are experiencing anxiety and life transitions, both of which have been heavily influenced by the pandemic. If you are ready to explore care options today, start by requesting an appointment.
