How COVID-19 Has Changed Our Mental Health: Before and After
The COVID-19 pandemic has left an indelible mark on our lives in many ways, including our mental health. The unprecedented scale and speed of change in our daily lives have brought mental health issues to the forefront. Let’s take a deep dive into how COVID-19 has changed our mental health before and after the pandemic.
Before COVID-19
Prior to the pandemic, mental health was still a prevalent issue in society. Anxiety and depression were the most common mental health problems faced by many individuals. These mental health problems were caused primarily by financial pressure, unemployment, and social isolation.
People used to cope with these issues by visiting therapists or consulting psychologists, or by speaking to friends about their problems. In-person support groups were popular, and people found comfort in meeting like-minded individuals who were going through similar experiences.
Moreover, people had an option to go outside and pursue outdoor activities such as going to the gym, playing sports, or taking a walk in the park. The ability to do these activities had a positive effect on one’s mental well-being.
After COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought with it a whole new set of challenges and mental health issues that people are grappling with. The rise of remote working and online learning has led to increased screen time, which has profoundly affected people’s mental health. People are experiencing burnout from spending long hours staring at the screen, and this has led to symptoms similar to depression and anxiety.
With social distancing being the new norm, people are experiencing social isolation, which is a significant contributing factor to mental health problems. People are feeling lonely, and their mental health is being impacted. This lack of connection with others has led to an increase in stress levels, which can lead to mental health problems.
Furthermore, people are dealing with the loss of loved ones, which has been one of the most significant changes brought on by the pandemic. The grief and the trauma that people are experiencing these days are incredibly challenging to deal with, and people are struggling to find ways to cope.
What can be done?
The good news is that there are ways to manage these mental health issues during the pandemic. Individuals can try to limit screen time by taking breaks between work, pursuing hobbies that do not require screen time. Engaging in activities that help connect with others, such as virtual sessions can be helpful.
Individuals can also try to stay connected- with friends and family through social media and phone calls. While it may not be the same as seeing people in person, it can help people feel less alone. It’s essential to acknowledge that it’s okay not to be okay. Therapy sessions, or consulting psychologists can offer a great avenue for support.
In conclusion, the COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant changes to our mental well-being. We need to recognize the challenges that it has brought, and the importance of mental health during these difficult times. It’s vital to look after ourselves and each other, to get through this unprecedented and difficult period as smoothly as possible.
