Cotonavirus Outbreak May Impact Mental Health

If you’re feeling down or stressed out during the coronavirus outbreak, you’re not alone.

”These reactions and the feelings that we’re all having associated with such intensity are really the normal response to these abnormal/unknown circumstances. 

Our current situation is unprecedented and there’s no rule book and no instructions on how to handle this, so of course, we’re feeling unsettled and unstable and that presents as fear and anxiety. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, along with the World Health Organization, encourage people to avoid crowded areas. Although necessary, individuals should make sure that are in tune to how they are feeling.

Social isolation is really the known gateway drug to depression so depending on how long this goes on we might see some really long-term significant impacts. 

Nevertheless; there is hope in all of this. There are plenty of ways to cope.

”Individuals should really be active, continue doing things that they love and be intentional about how they interact with other people, but not to completely isolate. 

Outside of using social media to stay connected, keep in mind that endless scrolling through information may not be the best idea. 

It’s a double-edged sword. We have so much information at our fingertips and it becomes difficult to possibly process all of that information all at the same time, so it is strongly suggested by mental health professionals for people to practice again boundaries and limitations, but be intentional about where you get your news. 

Pay attention to everything, you may feel isolated, but your emotions are real and are not isolated.

“We are struggling in some way with what to do with all of this and you should talk about it. 

As a former social worker, I cannot stress enough that if you ever feel like you need to seek help, reach out to a licensed professional or seek other mental health resources.

#mentalhealth