Since the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, there has been a whirlwind of information. From the different safety measures prescribed in order to flatten the curve, to the ongoing effort to prevent shifting hotspots across the country. It has been an exhausting several months that have left many of us still riding an emotional roller coaster.
California, for instance, was one of the first states to implement a stay-at-home order this Spring. Once they believed the virus was under control, the state began to reopen. Many health officials saw this as too soon, and now California finds itself in the midst of the pandemic again, struggling to contain the virus. This sense of déjà vu is likely to continue as many states are starting to face the same resurgence as California.
As the pandemic drags on, the emotional resilience of many will—understandably so—begin to fray, if it hasn’t already. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression are par for the course given the reality of the times. Everyone is experiencing a range of emotions: some days you’re up, some days you’re down, and some days it just feels like emotional whiplash.
If you have noticed, however, that your mood has started to affect your day-to-day functioning, it might be time to seek advice from a professional. Continued feelings of nervousness, irritability, sadness, guilt, exhaustion, or hopelessness could be signs of an anxiety or depression disorder.
For mild cases of anxiety or depression, psychotherapy can be very helpful. This type of therapy addresses the feelings, thoughts, and behaviors that are associated with these disorders. In more severe cases, introducing medication as part of the treatment plan is usually standard. Additionally, the inclusion of ketamine infusion therapy, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and acupuncture are becoming very popular options for those who suffer from anxiety and depression disorders.
Aside from taking advantage of help from mental health professionals, there are also a few things you can do to help yourself.
- Practice stress management
- Make sleep a priority
- Get some exercise
- Nourish your body with healthy eating
- Stay connected with others
Remember that it is okay to feel what you are feeling right now in such topsy-turvy and uncertain times. If managing the stress, anxiety and depression on your own are not working, you can always reach out for the support you need.