Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health
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As a result of the pandemic, the general population has seen a rise in mental health challenges. Global rates of stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia, anger, fear and post-traumatic stress disorder have all increased (Knoll, 2021). Given how long the stress of the pandemic has lasted, it is no surprise that the “second pandemic” on mental health has hit.
Patience is the key to maneuvering through this confusing time, as it can take 6-12 months or longer to recover and adjust to being back to work, school and a regular routine after the pandemic (Henry Ford Allegiance Health (HFAH), 2021). Below are tips to manage the stress of the pandemic.
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Talk to your loved ones regularly - if possible, spend time with your family. Make time to play games, take a walk, cook a meal or simply just visit with your loved ones.
Take time to do things that you enjoy - self-care is very important and can come in many different forms. For example you could:
| • | Spend time outside |
| • | Practice yoga or deep breathing |
| • | Pray or meditate |
| • | Get a massage |
| • | Spend time doing a hobby or explore a new hobby |
| • | Listen to your favorite music |
| • | Read a book or join a book club |
| • | Eat a healthy diet |
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Exercise - You don’t have to go to a gym to exercise. If you don’t have any workout equipment at home, simply taking a walk outside, looking up a YouTube video workout or using a workout app on your phone are all good ways to get some exercise. If you enjoy trying new workouts, attending a fitness class is always a fun way to get moving.
Practice positive thoughts - When negative thoughts arise, redirect them with positive thinking. Try to find the good in bad situations and avoid thinking of worst-case scenarios. If you are having trouble getting negative thoughts to leave, get busy. Usually staying active helps a mind that worries. Remember that nothing lasts forever and that there are brighter days to come.
Limit your time on social media and watching or reading the news - Most news and things shared on social media are not positive. Too much information on Covid-19 or other troubling news can increase worry, sadness and negative thinking. Make a conscious effort to limit how much time per day you want to spend on your phone, computer, tablet or in front of the TV. Taking a “screen break” is extremely beneficial for your mental and physical health.
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Seek help - If you need support or help getting through this tough time, talk to your health care provider. For Jackson College students and employees, the Oasis is on campus and offers counseling services; both in person and virtual appointments are available. The Oasis phone number is 517.990.1300, and their after-hours phone number is 517.787.7920. The Health Clinic is also available for mental health referrals, treatment and overall physical health concerns. Help is available, you don’t have to do this on your own.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger of suicide or serious self-harm, call 9-1-1 or the National Suicide Prevention line 1.800.273.8255
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