The sudden unfolding of a global crisis in the form of the coronavirus pandemic has definitely put a stop to more aspects of life than one. But one thing that hasn’t ceased to exist in this distortion of what we know as normality is mental illness. Depression is a mental ailment that alarmingly envelops almost five percent of the global population.

Despite being associated solely with symptoms of lasting sadness and crying spells, depression presents its clinical picture in various ways, spanning from imbalances in eating patterns to excess or limitations in sleep cycles. These physical manifestations paired with psychological outcomes such as extreme hopelessness, entertainment of suicidal thoughts, and social withdrawal can be incredibly harmful.

How has the pandemic contributed to depression?

The bouts of fear and isolation that the pandemic has instigated have significantly contributed to the aggravation of negative mental states and mood disorders, of which depression is at the list’s top. Apprehension of contracting the disease and a handful of stresses in the form of unemployment, unsustainability, and the inability to interact with others have all added to worsening the prognosis of depression.

As humans, we’re wired to rely on some level on the comfort and support that our social contexts provide us. The self-isolation that the pandemic has imposed has rendered individuals who were seeking treatment for their depressive symptoms unable to reach out in the ways that have proven serving and secure for them. Curbs in successful therapeutic processes and distances from community-based help services, or even informal help groups that banish the loneliness component of depression are out of reach.

Practicing self-help to manage depression during the pandemic:

Knowing that the consequences of the coronavirus are far from over it is important to seek sources of help that are approachable at all times. Consider the following self-help methods that cater to a socially isolated environment:

• Opt for healthier coping ways: Stress has been associated with long-term depression in more ways than one. It is vital to identify and then manage the triggers of stress that might be mediating your depression. For instance, if too much time in the house is suffocating you, plan short but regular walks around your neighborhood while remaining mindful of social distancing principles.
• Assess your relationships: Human relationships are just as much a source of stress as they are of comfort. Loneliness during the pandemic might be forcing you to hold on tightly to all and any relationships you might have, but an important aspect of self-help is to recognize toxic and stress-inducing interactions that are no longer serving you, and exit them.
• Regulate what you consume: Put thought into how excessively following the news impacts your mental health. While staying informed is never a bad idea, obsessions and fear stem from too much indulgence. Employ self-help by limiting the amount of news and information you consume. Positive self-thoughts allow for better management of the psychological symptoms of depression.

JcCarmona

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