The coronavirus has been difficult for all of us, but especially so for those of us who have struggled with anxiety, depression, or isolation. Anxiety, despair, and anger problems will persist for some of us, including some of our children, even after the pandemic is over.
Covid-19 has exacerbated mental health issues that were simmering beneath the surface during regular times. These mental health issues and the isolation produced by COVID-19 will not go away once the virus is no longer a threat.
How COVID-19 can impact your mental health in the longterm
Isolation, uncertainty, and a shrinking support system have exacerbated mental health concerns that many of us are dealing with. Emotional troubles are much more intense and common now than they were before the pandemic, according to researchers (1). During the pandemic, the University of Vermont’s “Hedonometer” reported the highest levels of depression (2).
COVID-19 has turned many households into pressure cookers, putting even the most resilient families to the test. Working from home, homeschooling, limited (or no!) social activities, health issues, and financial concerns have all combined to produce a perfect storm to strain our emotions. Many of us have experienced significant levels of anxiety, sadness, and even substance abuse. If negative feelings persist as the pandemic situation improves, you should seek professional support.
Coping with COVID-related anxiety
Most people are disturbed by abrupt changes in their routine. When a person’s routine is disrupted, coping mechanisms are activated. Some coping methods are beneficial to us. Other coping techniques include engaging in destructive behaviors. Even when the period of uncertainty has passed, those negative coping patterns may persist.
We became hyperaware of danger during the pandemic’s peak moments. Masking, handwashing, eating with friends or family, socializing, traveling to school or work, utilizing public transportation, or simply getting out of the house became risky. We conditioned our bodies to fear activities that, in a post-coronavirus future, we would be able to do safely. Risk avoidance behaviors that made sense when the pandemic was raging may no longer make sense, but our minds do not simply forget what we thought was a threat.
It’s not surprising that many of us may have social anxiety when we are in a group or in crowded places. (Social anxiety is characterized by a strong fear or apprehension in social circumstances.) Panic attacks can be triggered by social anxiety, and it will almost surely worsen your social isolation. Many of us will be influenced by health anxiety after a year of health concerns and being bombarded with health news.
Normal living includes spending time with family, chatting with friends, meeting coworkers in person, traveling, sports, and entertainment. These are all pastimes that help us deal with life’s tensions and strains. Social anxiety cuts us off from the support network that we most need to alleviate anxiety and manage challenging feelings.
5 tips for coping with pandemic-related anxiety
- Go at your own pace. While our rational brain may recognize that an action is safe, it may take some time for your body and emotional brain to relearn the safety responses you’ve developed.
- Take small steps. You’re not quite ready to eat in a restaurant yet? Start with a takeout order and a picnic in the park. Try outdoor dining when you feel at ease in the park.
- Begin with easier activities. Choose the least anxiety-inducing activity on your to-do list if you want to see family, go shopping, or eat out. Go one level up on the list as you become more comfortable with the initial activity you choose.
- Let nature inspire you to feel bigger than your fear. If you truly experience nature, you will be astounded by the vastness of the sky and the sheer power of the ocean’s waves. Take a walk in nature, experience the benefit of deep breathing, and contemplate the enormity of what you witness. Allow yourself to feel awe and healthy. Becoming part of the larger natural world can help put your fears in perspective and alleviate the physical effects of anxiety.
- Seek help from a skilled mental health practitioner if you are in distress.
Reach out for support
Even in the post-pandemic era, we all have far more stress than we can handle. Contact us today to make an appointment.
(1) Saha, K., Torous, J., Caine, E. D., & De Choudhury, M. (2020). Social Media Reveals Psychosocial Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic. medRxiv.
(2) Hedonometer.org. The Computational Story Lab, at the University of Vermont Complex Systems Center. http://hedonomaeter.org/timeseries/en_all/