Unfortunately, depression rates have steadily been on the rise and the COVID-19 pandemic has skyrocketed that spike even further. In fact, SSRI’s have been frequently prescribed to COVID patients due to its notable impact on psychiatric symptoms. According to the UN health agency’s news report, “the greatest deterioration in mental health took place in the areas worst-hit by COVID-19 where infections were high and social interaction was restricted”. Rates of depression, anxiety, and PTSD have especially exacerbated since the pandemic. Therefore, there is now a greater attention to the mental health epidemic, which has been evident through the media and the availability of mental health services.
Here are some of the top contributors to the more recent increase in the prevalence of depression, one of the top-leading mental health disorders. It is important to be mindful of this as we choose how to spend our time and go about our daily lives.
Major lifestyle changes – grieving loved ones, loss of employment (and exhaustion and high-risks faced by healthcare and frontline workers), health disruptions
Social isolation – Less engagement with others/their communities and routines, increased social media use rather than in-person interactions (which has proven to lead to high rates of anxiety, decreased self-esteem, and less time for healthier activities)
Choosing to see a therapist could be very helpful as they can help create a personalized plan to become more resistant to such common triggers. It is highly recommended to book a free consultation with Mental Map to Wellness, which would guide you on the path to emotional resilience.
