As COVID-19 continues to cause quarantines and fear across the nation, it’s bringing a new problem to light, and that’s the problem of depression. Increased fear over health, changes in the stock market, and social isolation all contribute to anxiety and depression problems. For those who also struggle with addiction, depression treatment during COVID-19 is essential to preventing relapse.
Everyone’s Reaction to Stress is Different
Stressful situations create different responses for different people. For some, the stress of COVID-19 or similar crises causes them to be more diligent to protect themselves. For others, these serious events cause mental health problems.
Signs that your mental health is at risk in these challenging times include:
- Increased fear or worry
- Changes in sleeping and eating habits
- Insomnia
- Problems with your chronic health issues
- Increased desire for drugs or alcohol
If you notice any of these signs, seek depression treatment during COVID-19 right away. The sooner you get help for your mental health needs, the better your overall results will be, and the lower your chance of relapse becomes.
Uncertainty About the Future Increases Risk of Depression
One of the reasons a global pandemic or similar crisis creates problems with depression is the uncertainty it creates about the future. From financial uncertainty with stores closing to uncertainty about health, many people struggle with the unknown. This can create anxiety, and if left untreated anxiety causes depression.
Stock Market Drops Tied to Increased Drug Abuse and Mental Health Issues
If social isolation and fear of the unknown were not enough, these types of crises tend to cause the stock market to drop, and this has already happened with the COVID-19 crisis. Studies show that severe economic loss, which is common in serious stock market crashes, increases instances of alcohol and drug abuse.
After the stock market crash of 1929, suicide numbers in New York’s financial district skyrocketed. Though alcohol was illegal at the time, the number of people who visited the clandestine speakeasies also increased. Because of a lack of financial security, mental health issues were abundant.
While the effect of COVID-19 on the financial markets remains unknown at this time, historical data shows that increased financial risk increases mental health risk.
Social Isolation a Leading Cause of Depression
The COVID-19 crisis has lead to many mandatory cases of social isolation. States and cities are asking their residents to stay home, and even the CDC is asking for limited social engagement. This adds to the financial and health insecurity during this time, which further increases the risk of depression.
People are hard-wired to interact with other people. When people begin to feel lonely, their mental health is at serious risk. In fact, isolation and loneliness lead to an increased risk of premature death.
In times when temporary social isolation is necessary, these facts create concern. Therefore, in order to reduce the risks that come from social isolation, try to find ways to connect with others during this time. Whether it is through video chat dates, connecting online, or a quick phone call, staying socially connected is just as important as seeking depression treatment during COVID-19.
Prompt Depression Treatment During COVID-19 Reduces the Risk of Addiction Problems
The number of people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and substance abuse is only going to increase as quarantine and social factors plague the community in the coming days. Depression treatment during COVID-19 remains the first line of defense against increased problems with addiction.
If you or someone you love struggles with mental health concerns that increase in the coming days, seek help right away. With proper treatment, depression and anxiety do not have to take over. To learn more, contact the Right Step at 17135283709 today.
