Top 5 Health Concerns to Watch Out for in 2022
As we inch towards 2022, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the top health concerns that could potentially impact us in the coming year. While some are continuations from previous years, others have emerged due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 health concerns to watch out for in 2022.
1. Mental Health Issues
The pandemic has had a significant impact on people’s mental health, and it’s expected to continue in 2022. While it’s important to keep an eye on all mental health issues, depression and anxiety are at the forefront. A recent study found that young adults, women, and people of color were the most likely to experience these issues in the wake of the pandemic. As such, mental health professionals recommend seeking support early on to mitigate further impact.
2. Chronic Diseases
Chronic diseases refer to long-term illnesses, such as diabetes, asthma, and heart disease, among others. While these have always been a concern, the pandemic has made them even more critical. A recent study found that those with pre-existing conditions were more likely to be hospitalized or die from COVID-19. As such, it’s crucial to manage your chronic diseases effectively to avoid further complications.
3. Substance Abuse
Substance abuse, including alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, was a concern pre-pandemic, but it’s even more critical now. The pandemic has led to increased stress levels, social isolation, and changes in people’s routines, which can trigger substance abuse. Additionally, the availability of certain substances, such as opioids, has increased, leading to further concern. It’s crucial to seek support and help if you or anyone you know is struggling with substance abuse.
4. Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders, such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome, are on the rise due to the pandemic. Increased stress levels, changes in routines, and anxiety are some of the factors that contribute to these disorders. As sleep is essential to a healthy lifestyle, it’s crucial to manage these disorders effectively to avoid further complications.
5. Chronic Pain
Lastly, chronic pain is a health concern to watch out for in 2022. Similar to mental health issues, women and people of color are at a higher risk of experiencing chronic pain. The pandemic has worsened the situation, with increased stress levels and changes in routines contributing to the problem. Management of chronic pain is an ongoing process, and seeking support and help early on is crucial to prevent further complications.
Conclusion
In summary, mental health issues, chronic diseases, substance abuse, sleep disorders, and chronic pain are the top 5 health concerns to watch out for in 2022. While these concerns were present before the pandemic, it’s crucial to be aware of them now more than ever. Seeking support and help early on is essential to mitigate further complications. Remember to take care of yourself and your loved ones’ health as we navigate through these uncertain times.
