Coping With COVID-19 Depression and Isolation

During the past few months, the entire world has dealt with something that it hasn’t seen in more than 100 years. The rise of the Coronavirus pandemic has led to a global public health crisis that has contributed to an economic crisis as well. One of the most overlooked issues during this pandemic has been the rise of mental health issues. Specifically, the rates of depression are rising. 

According to information released by the US Census Bureau, more than a third of people in the United States have shown signs of clinical depression and anxiety. These mental health conditions, along with others, are becoming amplified due to several reasons, including:

  • Uncertainty regarding the future
  • Trauma due to widespread disease
  • Sadness due to the loss of loved ones
  • Shelter in place regulations that make it hard for people to leave the house
  • Financial stress related to reduced revenue streams (for business owners) and layoffs (for employees)
  • A loss of a feeling of community
  • Reduced access to key caregivers

It is important to recognize that COVID-19 depression is real and that help is available. 

What does COVID-19 depression look like?

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19 Depression

The sooner you spot the signs of COVID-19 depression, the faster you can get help. Some of the most common symptoms of depression include:

  • Changes in sleep patterns, either sleeping too much or not at all
  • Changes in appetite, including eating significantly more or significantly less than baseline
  • Rapid, unintentional fluctuations in weight
  • A feeling of guilt over situations and circumstances that are not your fault
  • Emotional lability that might include sadness, anger, and irritability
  • Temper tantrums
  • Markedly reduced energy, including the inability to get out of bed
  • Suicidal thoughts or actions

If you have developed any of the symptoms described above, you might have COVID-19 depression. There are a few steps that you can take to access the help you need.

Coping with COVID-19 Depression

Some of the adjustments that you can make to cope with COVID-19 depression include:

  • Take a break. Pause for a moment and take a deep breath. Think about your situation and engage in activities that bring you joy and pleasure.
  • Avoid anything that seems upsetting. Promote your health and well-being by stepping away from the cause of your stress.
  • Take care of your physical health. Your mental and physical health go hand in hand. Go for a walk. Exercise. Play sports (in a socially distant manner)

Finally, if you’re not able to manage the depression, then seek help from trained healthcare professionals.

Get Help with COVID-19 Depression Now

If you need help dealing with depression or anxiety due to COVID-19, we have the resources you need to feel supported during this time. If you feel overwhelmed or unsafe, then call our 24-hour hotline at  Jonas Hill Hospital today at (828) 394-6722 to make an appointment with a healthcare professional. You do not have to go through this alone! We are here to help you.

Jonas Hill Hospital & Clinic a division of Caldwell Memorial Hospital provides our community with safe, dignified and integrated care for patients experiencing an acute mental health need. We provide hope, treatment, and healing through a holistic program of evidence-based psychiatric treatment, team-based medical care, and education provided by engaging and dedicated professionals in a safe and healing environment. Contact Jonas Hill Hospital and Clinic today at (828) 394-6722 for more information.