The COVID-19 pandemic can be depicted as a form of collective trauma in which more than a single virus is currently wreaking havoc. The most feared illness causes the physical body to deteriorate at unprecedented rates, while the other lingers in a far more sinister way—and affects the mind. The pandemic is undoubtedly one of the most stressful times in the modern world, where “life as usual” has taken a turn—seemingly plunged deep into a void and never seen again.
More and more people now lose a sense of hope, with tensions surrounding routines. In terms of brain health, the long-term effects can be devastating. Too much stress can eventually force the person to develop numerous risks, along with various other problems pills and medications simply can fix.
In uncertainty and lack of control, a person’s reaction to stressors can be altered significantly. Unfortunately, the end still seems much too far to grasp. In an attempt to help shed light on what needs to be talked about, here are some of the most dangerous COVID long-term effects people currently suffer from—all of which occur in the premises of the mind:
Loneliness
Most people find themselves with fewer connections, both voluntarily and involuntarily. Quarantine protocols have forced everyone to stay at home, and when out in public, the 6-feet distance is implemented. As a result, social isolation occurs, leading to a constant feeling of a lack of meaning in life.
Simply put, building and sustaining relationships has become a difficult task in an attempt to protect a feeling of safety. When the world becomes too much to handle, they resort to detachment—and the need to reconnect becomes even more difficult.
Trauma
Apart from loneliness, traumatized people living through the pandemic are likely forced to relive their painful life experiences. Any memory that’s shrouded in trauma can be triggered unconsciously, thereby affecting the overall mental health of the person in question. This makes trauma a long-term chronic problem, with a lid closing the negative experiences that never seem to close.
This is particularly true for people who have lost loved ones in the past, as the reality of the deadliness of the virus can trigger pain and anxiety, especially when it comes to their surviving loved ones.
Stress
The economy is also suffering, which has left countless people unemployed or without income. Such worries can also affect a person’s well-being, leading to chronic stress. Such uncertainty also takes a toll on many, especially since survival banks heavily on good financial standing. With the economy down and no income in sight, more and more people succumb to stress—and everything in between.
The Bottom Line
The collective trauma of the pandemic is a challenge difficult to overcome, as it goes beyond just the physical realm of health. Diseases of the mind are difficult to treat and even more challenging to prevent. They lurk in dark corners and only strike at the lowest points. For many who cannot deal with uncertainty well, the COVID-19 has infected them with a different kind of parasite. And unless something is found to effectively help, the effects may linger long after the coronavirus has been eradicated.
If you wish to learn more about proper COVID recovery, or if you’re a COVID survivor looking to heal beyond the physical, Therapy24x7 has you covered. We offer you services online, ensuring that you’re provided with the proper support, coping strategies, and result-based therapies to help you regain your sense of self. Book an online appointment today.