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COVID-19 has impacted mental health, well-being

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted personal and professional lives. One area in which we now have increased awareness is mental health and how the pandemic might affect it moving forward.

A study published in the journal BMJ on Feb. 17, 2022, found that within a year of being infected with COVID-19, people were significantly more likely to be diagnosed with new psychiatric disorders than people who did not get infected.

“I would say everyone is experiencing adjustment disorder to a degree,” said Rachael Frederick, MSW, LCSW, Aspirus Health clinical therapist. “On top of that we’ve seen more anxiety, depression and even forms of PTSD [post-traumatic stress disorder] from those who have recovered or lost a loved one to COVID-19.”

People have different ways of dealing with stress. In areas like Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, many turn to alcohol. Revenue from state excise taxes on alcohol during the year that ended June 30, 2021, increased almost 17 percent from the prior year.

Experts say that it is important to maintain a good balance and focus on productive habits such as eating a healthy diet, exercising and taking breaks from screen time.

“That is really pivotal in maintaining overall health,” Frederick said. “Anything done in excess can end up being problematic. Our bodies need balance.”

Children and teens often mimic what they see from the adults around them. Parents can be more reassuring to others around them, especially children, if they are better prepared.

One key way to support children is to find methods to effectively communicate.

“Kids can convey their feelings and thoughts more accurately in a visual context rather than a verbal context,” Frederick said. “Maybe you can write down a question and have your child write or draw their feelings.”

It is important to learn self-care strategies and get the care you need to help you cope so your stress doesn’t lead to more harmful outcomes.

“One of the silver linings of the pandemic has been the increase of mental health awareness and resources,” Frederick said. “I’ve had a lot more people just touching base with me since COVID to look into their options. As a counselor I find that very fulfilling.”

Anyone looking for more information on mental health awareness can visit the Aspirus Health Behavioral Health & Counseling website, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services Resilient Wisconsin resource website or the Mental Health America of Wisconsin website for resources in their county.

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