It’s safe to say that the coronavirus pandemic has affected all parts of every person’s life and these big changes have a significant effect on an individual’s mental health. A sizable number of people are already afflicted with mental health problems, but the COVID-19 outbreak has only aggravated this and doubled the amount.
Unfortunately, people experiencing anxiety, grief, depression, and more aren’t sure how they can cope during this time, especially since there are still strict orders to stay home. Thankfully, online therapy is readily available for people who need assistance in tackling their mental health concerns.
If you’re curious about the long-term mental health impacts of the pandemic, keep reading. It pays to be aware of these issues so that you can help yourself, your loved ones, or someone you may know who’s fighting mental issues amid the pandemic.
OCD
One of the forms of mental illnesses that more people are experiencing due to the pandemic is OCD, and we might not see the end of its increase any time soon.
Since the virus requires you to be vigilant about your hygiene, more people, even those who have a predisposition of OCD, will trigger or worsen their condition. Some of these people may develop chronic germaphobe tendencies unless given the right treatment immediately.
Anxiety
OCD is a manifestation of anxiety, but general anxiety is also a significant mental health issue that many should watch out for, especially since they come in severities.
People already suffer from anxiety, but because of this virus, more are feeling anxious, and their conditions may even worsen. Even when the pandemic ends, people may still suffer from anxiety without the proper treatment because of the threat of new variants and strains.
Chronic Loneliness
One of the most significant rules that this virus brought about was practicing social distancing and staying home at all costs, except when you need to buy essentials. Many have triggered chronic loneliness or a feeling of “lack of meaning because of social isolation.”
Some people may have found themselves with fewer connections or have challenges rebuilding their network. For some people, they’ve entirely withdrawn themselves from the outside world and have become resistant to social interactions.
Unfortunately, when people detach themselves from the world, socializing with other people in the future may be difficult. It’s best to speak to 24/7 therapists to help cope with feelings of isolation and loneliness, preventing mental issues from worsening.
Trauma and Depression
Many people have suffered a variety of losses. It may be a loss of their job or someone close to them; either way, a loss is a loss, and not being able to grieve appropriately may cause significant mental health issues.
Even after the pandemic, many people who suffered from loss will feel the lasting effects, mainly when memories of the trauma are triggered. Besides that, these distressing experiences significantly impact a person’s long-term well-being as it aggravates depression, stress, and even suicidal thoughts.
Moving forward and living in constant fear of losing someone is incredibly difficult; that’s why speaking to therapists to help you deal with loss and grief is hugely recommended.
The Bottom Line: Dealing With Mental Issues Can Help Ease the Impacts of the Coronavirus on a Person’s Mental Health
Inevitably, many long-term mental health impacts are caused by the global pandemic. However, acknowledging the mental issues present and taking steps to deal with these issues. Talking to a 24/7 therapist can help individuals cope with these difficulties, ultimately easing the virus’s harsh effects on their mental health.
How Can Therapy24x7 Help You?
If you need help dealing with your mental health problems or know someone who needs assistance, Therapy24x7 provides psychotherapy and life-coaching services in-office and online. Our 24/7 therapists offer support, enhanced coping strategies, results-based therapy for issues like stress, clinical depression, chronic anxiety, and more. Please book an appointment with us today!