Fashion isn’t what it once was. Day-to-evening wear no longer holds the same spot in people’s closets. Instead, people are flocking to comfortable clothing to fill their drawers. Large get-togethers and parties aren’t trendy. Web-based social activities are how people socialize. Even activism and opinions are now expressed through face masks alongside signs and banners. COVID-19 has changed the world. Unfortunately, one year later, COVID-19 also changed the mental health well-being of many.
Mental Health Impact of COVID-19
Before COVID-19 (coronavirus), people gathered together to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries or graduations. Socializing came in all forms, and people could hug, kiss or talk without worrying.
- Once scientists realized how dangerous the coronavirus was, health regulations were put in place, such as social distancing and quarantining – causing an uptick in depression and anxiety. Other factors that cause mental health concerns came from disinformation about the pandemic as well as economic strife due to job loss and job furloughs
As a result, many people began to show signs of anxiety, confusion, anger, suicidal thoughts or post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD). An increase in anxiety, depression or PTSD can occur among those without a pre-existing mental health disorder. One study found 54% of overall participants felt the psychological impact of COVID-19 was moderate or severe; 29% rated their anxiety as moderate to severe, while 17% reported depression as moderate to severe.
COVID-19 Impact on Those with a Substance Addiction
Those with a substance addiction are already at a higher risk for health issues:
- Issues getting tested for COVID-19 or receiving treatment.
- An increased chance of having physical or psychological disorders.
- Greater risk of severe health outcomes if infected with COVID-19.
- Opioid use disorder, methamphetamine or another psychostimulant disorder can put a person at a higher risk of infection.
- Other difficulties include homelessness, which can drive people to shelters where they’re at an increased risk of catching COVID-19.
Mental Health or Addiction Treatment COVID-19 Regulations
Seeking help for mental health or a substance addiction shouldn’t cause stress or anxiety. Many centers, like Casa Palmera, have put in place safety precautions to ensure both their staff and patients are safe. Those who have mental health disorders or an addiction to drugs or alcohol can safely receive therapy either in a residential or outpatient setting. Now more than ever, help for mental health and substance use disorders is paramount.
Treatment centers like Casa Palmera understand that mental health well-being has taken a toll, and oftentimes has perpetuates the use of drugs or alcohol in order to cope. It’s been a tough year. Our goal and promise to those seeking help for substance addiction or mental health disorders are to provide them with the specialized treatment they need, adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols. We know this is a difficult time in many people’s lives and we are doing our best to ensure you feel safe enough to begin your recovery journey. Mental health and substance addiction treatment is available; our staff is here to guide our patients through these difficult times. For more information, call (855) 508-0473.
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