Coronavirus and Depression: 

Why is it Happening and What Should You Do?

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been associated with mental health challenges related to the morbidity and mortality caused by the disease and the mitigating activities, including the impact of physical distancing and stay-at-home orders.

Symptoms of anxiety and depressive disorders increased considerably in the United States during April–June of 2020, compared with the same period in 2019. (CDC, August 2020).

Why Are Anxiety and Depression Happening?

When something out of the ordinary occurs, our internal alert system takes notice, and our brain realizes something different.  Not only is something out of the ordinary taking place, but it’s also not right; it’s causing sickness and death, and on the onset, the expert says there’s no cure.  It’s invisible, moves at will, and has the potential to destroy.  Our internal systems have flashing red lights, a loud buzzer ringing alerting us that danger is out there, it’s near, but we don’t know where – they call it COVID-19; all of which can and will cause significant stress even panic.  

The morbidity and mortality caused by the disease and the mitigation activities include mandated social distancing and stay-at-home orders; it contributes significantly to anxiety and depression. 

Additional COVID-19 Depression Causes

• Isolation- Many have been separated from friends, family, and society.

• Financial Concerns

• Layoffs- Many have lost jobs or have been furloughed

The Negative Impact of COVID and  Depression

• Unhealthy habits

  • Overeating

    • Weight Gain

  • Consuming alcohol or other substances

• Lack of sleep

• Lack of Productivity

• Low Energy

How to Heal 

To begin healing from the stressors, talk to someone, call out to your Primary Care Physician (PCP) or a Mental Health Counselor.   These professionals will be able to support you in navigating and sorting through your feelings, strengthen your coping skills, and support you in gaining a healthy perspective as you prepare for life after COVID. 

Be social (Do not stay to yourself) – Healthy Socializing through platforms such as ZOOM, Doxy, and countless other interactive media platforms that allow you to see and interact with loved ones and friends.  

Stay Active – Walk your neighborhood block – walk around your yard – tune in to an online or YouTube exercise session. 

On a whim, I went to the park with a 13-year-old client who challenged me to a game of basketball – I obliged, and boy – it served me well – tired ‘YES’ – but I’ve not had my heartrate increase that high since, well I won’t disclose how long it’s been, and I haven’t moved my body in that manner in a long time.  My mind, body, and soul enjoyed the experience, and I slept well that night. Movement is vital – your body and mind will thank you, and you will benefit in more ways than one!  Please go on, try it.

Plant a garden or garden indoors – release your inner creativity!

I encourage you to seek professional support, don’t prolong getting resources to support you in becoming healthier.  I encourage you to follow the CDC, State, and Local guidelines for protecting yourself and others.

The space we are in will not last forever; how will you fare when it’s all over. Prepare now to be healthier, wiser, and better than when it all began.

Come and Trust the Process; we are here for you!